Lesson 31, Unreasonable search and seizure.
Important Terms and Concepts:
- Affidavit
- Exclusionary Rule
- Probable Cause
- Reasonableness
- Search
- Seizure
- Self-incrimination
- Use Immunity
- Warrant
Mapp v. Ohio (1961)
The fourth Amendment protects against evidence obtained illegally in the court of law. This was a major factor in deciding the case. What the police initially searched Dollree Mapp's home for a fugitive when they discovered obscene items and tried to incriminate her with them. This ,however, resulted in failure as evidence obtained in an illegal manner will be deemed useless in the court of law. The final decision was 6 votes for Mapp, and 3 votes against. Final verdict: Mapp was released from any conviction held against her as all evidence used was obtained illegally.