jun 11, 2001 - KYLLO V. UNITED STATES, 2001

Description:

A Department of Interior agent used a thermal imaging device to scan Kyllo's home, who was suspected of growing marijuana. Based on the hot spots seen with the thermal imaging camera, utility bills, and other information, a warrant was granted for a search. Kyllo was indicted on a federal drug charge.

The Supreme Court had to decide if the use of the thermal imaging device was unconstitutional and in violation of the Fourth Amendment.

The Court held that this was a violation. The fact that police used a device that would not be readily available to the general public to "view" the inside of the house (which is not in plain view to the public) constituted an unlawful search.

(Lippman, Criminal Procedure, pgs. 68-71)
(https://www.oyez.org/cases/2000/99-8508)

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