Police observe a suspect carrying a brown paper package leave an apartment that is known to sell marijuana. The package is the same size as packages of marijuana they had seen earlier that day. The individual under observation places the bag in the trunk of his car and starts to drive away. Fearing the loss of evidence, officers stop him. To proceed within legal limits, officers who wish to search the car for marijuana _____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Based on the information provided, the police have reasonable suspicion that the brown paper package contains marijuana. However, without a warrant or the driver's consent, they cannot search the entire car. They may only search the package in the trunk, which is where they observed the suspect place it. Therefore, option B is the best choice. Option A is not applicable as it allows a search of the entire car, which goes beyond the scope of the reasonable suspicion. Option C is not correct because the police may search the package without arresting the driver. Option D is incorrect because the police have reasonable suspicion to search the package.

Police Observe a Suspect Carrying a Brown Paper Package Leave