Facts
Officer stopped an automobile driven by Prouse for the purpose of checking the driver’s license and registration. Officer allegedly smelled marijuana while approaching the car and subsequently seized marijuana in plain view on the floor.
Procedural History
The trial court granted Prouse’s motion to suppress the marijuana and the Delaware Supreme Court affirmed.
Issue(s)
Did the Delaware Supreme Court err in affirming the suppression on the grounds that random stops in the absence of articulable facts to justify the stop are constitutionally impermissible?
Holding(s)
No.
Reasoning/Analysis
The Court found that except where there is at least articulable and reasonable suspicion regarding a motorist’s illegal activities, stopping an automobile and detaining the driver in order to check the license and registration is unreasonable under the Fourth Amendment. The Court felt these random stops mirrored roving border patrol stops, which were found impermissible. The foremost method of enforcing traffic and vehicle safety regulations, it must be recalled, is acting upon observed violations.
Judgment/Outcome
The Court affirmed the judgment of the Delaware Supreme Court.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment