An anonymous tip that a residence is used to grow marijuana will not by itself justify a search; a warrant is generally required unless there are other factors such as probable cause or exigent circumstances.

An anonymous tip that a residence is used to grow marijuana will not by itself justify a search; a warrant is generally required unless there are other factors such as probable cause or exigent circumstances.

• A. A warrant is required
• B. Probable cause is all that is required
• C. Consent is sufficient
• D. No search is allowed

Answer: (A)

A warrant is required. An anonymous tip about marijuana growing by itself does not establish probable cause. Probable cause means there are enough facts and circumstances to lead a reasonable person to believe that evidence of a crime is present in a specific place. An unverified tip is typically unreliable, so police must look for corroborating information or other independent observations to meet the totality-of-the-circumstances standard. Without probable cause or an applicable exception, a search would violate the Fourth Amendment. Exigent circumstances or voluntary consent could justify a warrantless search, but those factors must exist or be present—an anonymous tip alone does not create them. Therefore, the general rule is that a warrant is required.

A warrant is required.

An anonymous tip about marijuana growing by itself does not establish probable cause. Probable cause means there are enough facts and circumstances to lead a reasonable person to believe that evidence of a crime is present in a specific place. An unverified tip is typically unreliable, so police must look for corroborating information or other independent observations to meet the totality-of-the-circumstances standard. Without probable cause or an applicable exception, a search would violate the Fourth Amendment.

Exigent circumstances or voluntary consent could justify a warrantless search, but those factors must exist or be present—an anonymous tip alone does not create them. Therefore, the general rule is that a warrant is required.