PC searches are limited to the crime that generated PC. Example: a stop for shoplifting; may the officer search for stolen items?

• A. Yes for any items found
• B. Yes, for items related to the crime
• C. Yes, but only with a warrant
• D. Limited to the crime that generated PC

Answer: (D)

When you think about a probable-cause search, the key idea is that its scope is tied to the offense that generated the probable cause. If an officer stops someone for shoplifting and has probable cause that stolen items are involved, the search may reach only those items or areas that could be evidence of that specific crime and that are within the suspect’s immediate control. It isn’t an invitation to hunt for all stolen property in the store, and it doesn’t automatically require a warrant if there’s enough probable cause to justify a limited search. So a search would be restricted to the stolen items or other evidence connected to the shoplifting incident, not to unrelated property. In short, the search is limited to the crime that generated the probable cause.