The Fourth Amendment provides citizens protection from unlawful search and seizure. A search warrant will be commonly obtained prior to a search. If you arrive at a crime scene before a search warrant is approved, and observe blood on the driveway next to the house while it's raining, what do you do?

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The best option is to photograph the scene and collect the blood sample, as it could be valuable evidence. However, it is important to wait for the warrant before any further work is done on the scene to avoid violating the Fourth Amendment. Collecting the sample before the warrant is approved does not automatically invalidate it as evidence, but the legality of the search may be challenged in court. By waiting for the warrant, the investigation can proceed legally and with the proper authorization.

The Fourth Amendment Provides Citizens Protection from Unlawful Search and Seizure