Warrant authorizes search for stolen electronics. May the officer search for items beyond those listed?

• A. Only for electronic devices
• B. Any items at all
• C. Only for stolen electronics
• D. Only for items related to the crime

Answer: (C)

The key principle is that a search warrant must describe with particularity the place to be searched and the items to be seized. The officer is allowed to search only for the items listed in the warrant and seize those. If the warrant says to search for stolen electronics, the search is limited to finding and taking those items.

So the officer may search for and seize stolen electronics, and not extend the search to grab other, non-listed items. If something not listed is found, it can only be seized or pursued under separate grounds (for example, plain view, exigent circumstances, or a separate warrant for those items).