Which of the following is NOT a valid basis to search a vehicle without a warrant?

• A. Consent from an occupant.
• B. A general suspicion of wrongdoing with no specific facts.
• C. Probable cause.
• D. Exigent circumstances.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a warrantless vehicle search must be justified by a recognized exception to the Fourth Amendment; a mere hunch isn’t enough. Occupants’ consent can make a search valid if given freely and voluntarily. A vehicle search can also be valid without a warrant if there is probable cause—often invoked under the automobile exception because cars can move quickly and evidence could be hidden or destroyed. Exigent circumstances, such as imminent danger or the risk of evidence being flushed or lost, can also justify a warrantless search. A general suspicion of wrongdoing with no specific facts does not meet any of these standards, since it lacks objective, articulable evidence that would lead a reasonable person to believe contraband or evidence is present. Therefore, that basis isn’t valid for a warrantless vehicle search.