When an officer objectively and reasonably relies on a search warrant, the evidence will be admitted despite the warrant’s failings
Does “Copy and Paste” Affidavit Amount to “Reckless Disregard” of the Facts?
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Category: Legal/Case Law
Police Officer Can’t Play Fast and Loose with Fake Facts
Eyewitness identification must have at least basic signs of reliability
How Does the Special Duty Rule Apply to Emergency Response?
It may provide legal protection, but it is hardly a substitute for sound policies
Emerging Tech and Law Enforcement: Forensic Genetic Genealogy
Using science and family history to answer the question of whodunnit
Officer’s Mistaken Understanding of Traffic Code Doesn’t Merit Suppression
The court held the officers’ interpretation was objectively reasonable and did not violate the Fourth Amendment
Search of Detached Garage Permissible When Warrant Described Only the House?
The critical question on appeal was whether the garage was actually part of the residence’s curtilage
Measure Twice, Flash Bang Once—SWAT Gets It Right on the Third Try (Sort of)
One hopes this case will prompt every SWAT scout and commander to scout twice, flash bang once
No Qualified Immunity for SWAT Raid
No doubt, hindsight in this case is indeed 20-20
Habeas Corpus Relief for a Gang Assassin of a 10-Month Old Baby?
The now-famous Miranda rule applies when there is both custody and interrogation
Traffic Detention Stopwatch Analysis Explained
The court must consider “whether conducting the sniff prolongs—i.e., adds time to—the stop”
Jail Staff Not Liable for Inmate’s Suicide
The evidence showed the jail staff did not subjectively believe Lawler was suicidal
Girlfriend’s Consent to Enter and Search Apartment Invalid
His express refusal of consent as a physically present resident rendered the officers’ entry unlawful