5.5.2

• Jurisdiction: Arizona

§ 5.5.2 Scope of Search

1. Probable Cause for Vehicle. If the officer has probable cause to believe the vehicle contains contraband or evidence of a crime, the officer may search the entire car and any containers therein. United States v. Ross, 456 U.S. 798 (1982) (searched a brown paper bag and zippered bag in trunk). This includes locked containers, locked glove boxes and locked trunks. See Ross, 453 U.S. at 821, 825; United States v. Mazzone, 782 F.2d 757, 760 (7th Cir. 1986) (citing Ross and United States v. Johns, 469 U.S. 478 (1985). This also includes containers that belong to the passenger. Wyoming v. Houghton, 526 U.S. 295 (1999).

2. Probable Cause for Container. If an officer has probable cause to search a container or package located in a car, he may stop the car and search the container or package without a warrant. California v. Acevedo, 500 U.S. 565 (1991). An officer’s experience in recognizing packaging of contraband can...