Can a police officer open a locked glove box without permison or a warrant?

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Can a police officer open a locked glove box without permison or a warrant?

Asked on October 10, 2012 under Criminal Law, New Mexico

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

In some situations, yes. For example, if the stop of the car is otherwise legitimate (it was for a traffice violation; it was because a check of the license plate revealed warrants or tickets; etc.), then if the officer has probable cause based on the circumstances to believe that is evidence (e.g. drugs) which will be disposed of or destroyed unless secured, or that there is or may be a weapon in the glove box, then the officer may be able to open the box without permission or a warrant.


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