On May 16, 2011, the United States Supreme Court officially ruled on an exigent circumstances case brought forth in Kentucky v. King. The Court held that, “The exigent circumstances rule applies when the police do not create the exigency by engaging or threatening to engage in conduct that violates the Fourth Amendment.” The Lexington, KY Police Department set up a … [Read more...]
Berghuis v. Thompkins: Supreme Court Clarifies “Right to Remain Silent”
The US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) published its opinion in Berghuis v. Thompkins on Tuesday, stating that invoking the right to remain silent requires the suspect to make an actual announcement that he does not want to speak to the police. The right to remain silent is a major portion of the Miranda decision, as is the right to counsel. The court, clarifying the silence aspect of … [Read more...]