Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Washington

Lost Purse searched by employee

I left my purse unattended at a St. Vincent De Paul. An Employee found it and proceeded to search contents to obtain information as to who it belonged. After locating ID, she also found a pink make- up bag in which she opended finding marijuana. She called the police, who were waiting for me to come retrieve my belongings. When I did I was led to a room where the officer had already searched my entire purse. I was arrested for possession with intent. Is this a legal search and seizure?


Asked on 1/06/06, 2:57 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Heidi Hunt Law Offices of Heidi L. Hunt, PLLC

Re: Lost Purse searched by employee

I give a free consultation and would be happy to let you what, if anything, you should do. Please go to www.heidihunt.com to get my toll free number to make an appointment.

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Answered on 1/12/06, 12:44 am
Christopher Steuart IT Forensics, Inc.

Re: Lost Purse searched by employee

Although lost or misplaced property has protection under the fourth amendment, this search was conducted by an employee of the shop. The initial search that revealed illegal materials was done by a non-law enforcement person, so is generally not covered by the fourth amendment. I would say I could argue for suppressing the evidence, but I would not be hopeful.

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Answered on 1/06/06, 5:12 pm


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