Pubdate: Sat, 24 Feb 2001
Source: Blade, The (OH)
Copyright: 2001 The Blade
Contact:  541 North Superior St., Toledo OH 43660
Website: http://www.toledoblade.com/

WARRANT STANDS IN SEARCH OF NOVELTY SHOP IN FINDLAY

FINDLAY - A municipal court judge has determined that a search warrant
used in a raid on a novelty shop last year was valid.

In October, police seized 80 pipes from Nikki's Neurotic Novelties at
325 West Main Cross St. The owner, Nichole Dyer, has been charged with
possession of drug paraphernalia. She claims the pipes are to be used
for tobacco.

Judge Kevin Smith said police had established probable cause to obtain
the warrant and seize the items.

Ms. Dyer has signs posted in the shop telling customers the pipes are to
be used for tobacco, but Judge Smith said the issue is not what possible
use an item may have but its intended and designed use. The items seized
were described as bongs, pipes, and dugouts.
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