Author Question: Arson evidence does not need to be packaged separately from other evidence. Indicate whether the ... (Read 71 times)

frankwu · **on:** Aug 17, 2018

Arson evidence does not need to be packaged separately from other evidence.

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Question 2

Did Crist give authority to conduct a warrantless search of the green-brown backpack for the firearm?

Police agents, acting on a tip that prison escapee Purcell was at a motel, went there and arrested him outside without incident. Fearing an explosion resulting from methamphetamine manufacture, police knocked on the door of Purcell's room. They heard a shower running and a fan blowing. After three minutes Purcell's girlfriend, Yolande Crist opened the door. She gave agents consent to take a quick look around. The agents observed two duffel type bag suitcases near the door and a green-brown backpack located between the bed and window. Some items in the room looked suspicious. Agents received permission from Crist to conduct a more complete search. Asked if there was anything dangerous in the room, Crist replied that a firearm was in one of the bags but did not indicate which one. An agent pointed toward one duffel bag and asked, Is it this bag? Crist responded that it might be. The agent opened that first duffel bag near the door, and as he searched it Crist said that was her bag because she set her purse on top of it. Upon opening the bag, the agent discovered marijuana but no firearm. The bag did not contain Crist's personal effects, but instead contained only men's clothing, indicating it was actually Purcell's bag, which he did not share with her. The agent did not ask her to verify whether she owned any of the other bags in the room. Shortly thereafter, another agent found the firearm in the brown-green backpack. After discovering the firearm, Crist said that she gave the backpack to Purcell for his use. The firearm was introduced to convict Purcell.
What will be an ideal response?