Reality TV star “Chumlee” is facing a variety of charges, according to local news sources. The Nevada-based man, real name Austin Lee Russell, is best-known for his role on the popular series “Pawn Stars.” He is currently facing drug crime and felony weapons charges, in addition to possible sex assault allegations, which have yet to be filed.
Russell was arrested on March 9 in his home in southwestern Las Vegas. Police say they were serving a search warrant on the premises in connection with a sexual assault investigation when they discovered what they believe to be methamphetamine and marijuana. They also say they found a gun of an unknown type.
Russell’s defense attorney spoke with the press on March 10 to say they are confident that they will beat the charges, which include 19 drug possession charges as well as an additional weapons charge. He has not yet been booked on the sexual assault charge. Russell has since been released from jail after posting a $62,000 bail charge. He is due back in court on May 23.
It will be up to the Nevada prosecution to determine the veracity of the police claims and prove in court that the man is indeed guilty of a drug crime, in this instance. The defense may wish to review the specifics of the search warrant police say they were serving at the time of Russell’s arrest to ensure it was being followed precisely. In addition, they may wish to examine the evidence before it is brought before the court.
Source: knpr.org, “Lawyer: ‘Pawn Stars’ Star To Fight Felony Drug, Gun Charges“, Mar. 11, 2016