Know Your Rights

CannabisNow Magazine Infographic by Ray Noland RIGHTSO IN THE HOME SE RIGHTS ON THE ROAD 4 HIDE OR DESTROY A suspect can expand the area cops are allowed to search by attempting to hide or destroy evidence. Cops are allowed to follow the footsteps of a suspect to investigate such behavior. 3 STOP AND FRISK REASONABLE SUSPICION If police also have a reasonable and articulable reason to believe 1 CONSENT a suspect is armed, they may stop and frisk the suspect for weapons. Contraband found through a patdown may be seized if the cop can identify it by its plain feel. If smells, appearance, or other facts give police a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity, they may briefly detain the suspect to ask questions. Generally speaking, the police may not enter a home without a warrant. But one common exception is when an occupant, or even a guest who appears to be an occupant, gives the cops permission to enter (the consent exception). Cops often lie or imply that the resident will look guilty if they refuse to give their consent to a search. 4 PROBABLE TRAFFIC VIOLATION CAUSE If the suspect gives consent, or if the cop's investigation gives him probable cause, then he may search any part of the car which he has cause to Police may legally stop a vehicle for any traffic violation, even just a faulty tail light. Some allegations, such as driving erratically, may be very difficult to either prove or disprove in court. believe could contain evidence of the 2 HOT PURSUIT suspected crime. This includes any containers which may hold the object of the officer's search. Bbc du BBE THC Another exception allows the police to enter a home if they are in hot pursuit of a fleeing suspect. Police may use whatever evidence they find in a home they enter this way, even if it is unrelated to the crime of the fleeing suspect. Once legally inside a home, police may seize any evidence of a crime which may be in plain view of the officers. Hidden or locked items require a warrant or at least probable cause. 3 PLAIN VIEW