19. Checkpoints in Administrative Searches. Flashcards
Checkpoints are detentions not based on individual suspicions
For this reason, they are authorized only in special situations
Checkpoints and administrative searches
Are permitted in areas requiring height and security as long as notice is provided to citizens
Attempts to avoid an administrative search that has begun
Provides reasonable suspicion to detain in frisk
Administrative searches must be
Regulated by a policy and not just a sign posted Plymouth county correctional facility example
General crime, control, checkpoint
Supreme Court and SJC ruled these are unconstitutional
Temporary checkpoints
To solicit public information about a recent serious crime, the court determined this is permissible
Checkpoints to determine impaired drivers
A sobriety checkpoint is a limited intrusion justified by compelling need in the public interest in reducing high fatalities. This is a relatively minor intrusion on personal liberty.
To promote safety at public demonstrations
Potential violence at a public rally and counter protest, justified a well advertised police administrative search
Fleeing felon checkpoint
In a swiftly developing situation, a roadblock to apprehend a dangerous fleeing felon is appropriate
Closely regulated businesses
The fourth amendment and article 14 allow warrantless administrative searches of closely regulated businesses.
The failure of a business, owner or agent to cooperate with an administrative inspection can be a crime.
Officers may engage in an administrative inspection even if they are suspicious that criminal activity is occurring on the premises, however, they may not use their administrative power to seek evidence unrelated to their administrative authority
Once a closely regulated business reveals evidence of a crime
Authorities must stop and obtain a search war
Closely regulated businesses; pharmacies
Pharmacies are part of a heavily regulated control substance industry. Police may inspect premises with an administrative warrant, or sometimes without a warrant.
Motor vehicle dealers
Warrantless inspections are permitted at dealer locations, see page 19–6
Motor vehicle dealer inspections
The attorney, general state police, colonel Boston, PD, commissioner chief of police of any city or town, or any author officer authorized by one of them may enter license premises to examine vehicles parts and records.
Commercial vehicle operators
Police officers certified may perform Random inspection by qualified federal motor carrier, safety administration officers