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You have likely heard that unless a valid exception applies, the United States Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. While you are still protected by the Fourth Amendment at the airport, security screeners have the right to search you and your belongings for prohibited items. In order to get through security, you will need to allow a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent to search your bags.
While these searches are legal, you do not lose all rights at the airport. If you feel that your rights have been violated, you need to consult with an attorney. At Maverick Ray & Associates, we provide dedicated defense for individuals who have been accused of crimes or had their rights violated. Contact our office at (281) 672-8029 for a free case consultation.
Getting through security at the airport can be a daunting task. In addition to long, tedious lines, you have to walk through metal detectors, place all your valuables in a tray, and subject your bags to being searched. If you refuse a baggage search at the airport before security, you may not be allowed to fly and may face additional consequences.
While TSA agents do have the right to search you and your belongings, including a manual search of your bag, they can even search you after the initial screening of your bags comes up without any prohibited items; however, they may not base the reason for their secondary search or screening on your race, religion, gender, or any other discriminatory classification.
Once you land, however, the exemptions that allowed a TSA agent to search your bags prior to boarding a flight no longer apply. A police officer cannot simply search your belongings without a valid reason.
A police officer cannot conduct a warrantless search of your belongings unless:
If an officer asks to search your baggage after you land, you can politely decline. You do not have to consent to the search. If your baggage is unlawfully searched or items are seized, contact our office to discuss your case with an attorney.
If you are arrested after an officer illegally searched your belongings, you should consult with a criminal defense attorney. A defense attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and can work to get your case reduced or dismissed.
Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges after a warrantless search and seizure? Were your bags unlawfully searched by a police officer after you landed? Contact our office today at (281) 672-8029 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help protect your rights and your freedom.
