The 4th Amendment protects private information that is stored on electronic devices from undue government search and seizure. As such, police cannot search a person’s computer or cell phone without first obtaining a warrant supported by probable cause. If police do obtain a warrant, the judge will define the warrant’s scope and limits. Police cannot get a warrant to search for one type of evidence and then expand the search by also looking for something else.
In addition, it’s common for people to share electronic accounts and devices. This opens the possibility that the history of a phone or computer could be attributed to multiple people.
If you’re charged with a crime that involves a computer or cell phone search in Indiana, call Gibson Law Office at 855-9-GIBSON. Our criminal attorneys understand the technical nuances required to attack the evidence in cases where police may have illegally searched your electronic device.