Category Archives: 4th Amendment

CAN POLICE SEARCH MY BAG AFTER PRIVATE SECURITY?

            Security screenings are to be expected in places like amusement parks, concert venues and sports arenas.  But suppose you are caught with an illegal drug or weapon in your bag at one of those scans?  Is it legal for … Continue reading

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CAN POLICE SEARCH MY MOUTH DURING A STOP?

According to Illinois law, the answer is probably not–especially if the police used force. In People v. Augusta, defendant was stopped for failure to signal when turning. The officer asked defendant if he had something in his mouth, which defendant … Continue reading

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THE POLICE ARE AT MY DOOR: KNOCK AND TALK DOCTRINE IN ILLINOIS

When you answered the doorbell, you were surprised to see the police. The officer said he had a few questions and wanted to know if he could come in. The officer did not have a search warrant. Do you have … Continue reading

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