Under the Carroll Doctrine, what can an officer do if probable cause justifies a stop?

The Carroll Doctrine allows officers to perform a warrantless search of a vehicle if they have probable cause to believe that the vehicle contains evidence of a crime. This doctrine is grounded in the mobility of vehicles and the diminished expectation of privacy in a vehicle compared to a home. When probable cause is established, officers are justified in searching all areas of the vehicle where evidence or contraband may reasonably be found, including the trunk and compartments.

This broad authority is in place because vehicles are inherently mobile and can quickly leave the jurisdiction before law enforcement can obtain a warrant. The allowance under the Carroll Doctrine means that officers do not need to limit their search to just visible items or areas easily accessible; instead, they can conduct a thorough search of the vehicle's entirety based on the probable cause established.

This comprehensive approach recognizes the nature of vehicles and the need for law enforcement to act swiftly in situations where evidence may be lost. Therefore, the assertion that officers can justify a search of every part of the vehicle aligns perfectly with the principles outlined in the Carroll Doctrine.