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LEGAL

RESEARCH

Byars v. United States

Facts

State police officers obtained a search warrant for the defendantโ€™s residence from a judge. However, the warrant was invalid as it clearly lacked probable cause. Nonetheless, a search for โ€œintoxicating liquors and instruments and materials used in the manufacture of such liquorsโ€ was authorized. A Federal prohibition agent was asked to participate in the search, which he did. During the search, the Federal agent found some counterfeit whiskey stamps, while a State officer found additional counterfeit stamps. The counterfeit stamps were seized and the defendant was arrested.

Issue

Whether the counterfeit stamps seized during the execution of the invalid State search warrant was admissible against the defendant in his Federal trial?

Held

No. The seizure of the stamps violated the Fourth Amendment and was inadmissible in the defendantโ€™s Federal prosecution.

Discussion

he warrant lacked probable cause as required by the Fourth Amendment. An unconstitutional search is not validated by the fact that evidence of a crime is discovered.

Citation

273 U.S. 28, 47 S. Ct. 248 (1927)

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