A man in Atlanta tried a bold defense after police found 10 pounds of marijuana in his Avis rental car. He claimed the drugs weren’t his because “it’s a rental,” but this excuse holds little legal weight. Rental agreements explicitly prohibit transporting illegal substances, and authorities can still charge drivers for contraband found in vehicles they control.
Avis strictly forbids using rental cars for illegal activities. Their contract states: “No one may use the Vehicle in connection with any conduct that could be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, including transportation of a controlled substance.” This applies even if the driver claims ignorance about the drugs’ presence.
Under Georgia law, possession charges depend on proving the driver knew about the drugs. Prosecutors might argue the large quantity (10 pounds) makes it implausible the driver was unaware. Defense attorneys could counter by investigating previous renters or challenging the traffic stop’s legality.
The “it’s a rental” defense rarely succeeds alone. One legal expert explains: “Many drug dealers rent cars so they can say drugs aren’t theirs.” Courts examine factors like the stop’s circumstances, driver behavior, and whether the drugs were hidden. In serious cases, possession of marijuana for sale is a felony based on weight.
This incident highlights personal responsibility. Drivers control rental vehicles and must ensure they’re not used illegally. Conservatives argue such defenses reflect declining accountability in society. Law-abiding citizens suffer when drug crimes go unpunished through technical excuses.
Avis faces risks when renters break laws. In past cases, the company paid millions when stolen rental vehicles caused injuries. Though not liable for this drug case, illegal use violates their contracts. Rental companies must protect their fleets from criminal activity.
The war on drugs demands strict enforcement. Weak defenses like this undermine efforts to combat drug trafficking. Communities are safer when laws hold individuals accountable for their choices, regardless of vehicle ownership.
Personal responsibility remains paramount. Drivers must inspect rentals and report suspicious items immediately. This case shows that claiming ignorance of drugs in your vehicle rarely works—especially with large quantities. The legal system should prioritize victims over criminals making excuses.
