Reasonable suspicion for search...

Question

When pulled over for a brake light out and the officer checks my license, when he sees a 5 year old arrest for possession, is that enough for him to use as reasonable suspicion? I've been harassed each time they run my licence and straight up being told my past means I am under constant suspicion of possessing a CDS. THANK YOU!

Joseph F. Morgano · Answer

A faulty break light would be a reason for a valid stop.  From that point on, if the officer detects the odor of drugs or alcohol; or there is contraband in plain sight; or your behavior is such that it appears that you may be under the influence; or other factors, the officer will investigate further.  However, the 5 year old record alone should not lead the officer to investigate further, other than issuing a summons for the faulty break light.  If the officer suspects that there may be CDS in the vehicle, there would probably be another reason other than the prior conviction.

Mr. Kenneth Albert Vercammen · Answer

see recent case State v. Al-Sharif Scriven (A-11-15; 075682) 
          The trial court and Appellate Division properly 
          concluded that the motor-vehicle stop violated the 
          Federal and State Constitutions.  The language of the 
          high-beam statute, N.J.S.A. 39:3-60, is unambiguous; 
          drivers are required to dim their high beams only when 
          approaching an oncoming vehicle.  Neither a car parked 
          on a perpendicular street nor an on-foot police 
          officer count as an oncoming vehicle.  The judgment of 
          the Appellate Division upholding the trial court’s 
          suppression of the evidence is affirmed.

Paul Stanko · Answer

Reasonable suspicion is not enough for a search, but if it blooms into probable cause, it can be.

Q: Reasonable suspicion for search...