warrantless searches and seizures can be lawful when police are in hot pursuit of a subject
Courts have also established an ``exigent circumstances'' exception to the warrant requirement. ``Exigent circumstances'' simply means that the officers must act quickly. Typically, this is because police have a reasonable belief that evidence is in imminent danger of being removed or destroyed, but there is still a probable cause requirement. Exigent circumstances may also exist where there is a continuing danger, or where officers have a reasonable belief that people in need of assistance are present. This includes when the police are in 'hot pursuit of a fleeing felon.' In this circumstance, so long as there is probable cause, police may follow the suspect into a residence and seize any evidence in plain view.
Search and seizure