Minnesota v. Dickerson, 508 U.S. 366 (1993)
Minnesota v. Dickerson is a pivotal U.S.
Whether the 'plain feel' doctrine allows for the seizure of non-threatening contraband detected during a lawful investigative stop and frisk under the Fourth Amendment.
The Fourth Amendment prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures, but during a lawful Terry stop, an officer may seize non-threatening contraband if it is immediately apparent as such through the officer's touch, without further manipulation.
The Supreme Court held that while the 'plain feel' doctrine is valid in principle, the search in this specific case exceeded the lawful scope because the officer's determination required further manipulation beyond an immediate recognition.
Minnesota v. Dickerson is significant for law students as it clarifies the limits of police officers' authority during stop and frisks, introducing the plain feel doctrine. The case emphasizes the necessity for immediate recognition of contraband for its lawful seizure, ensuring the protection of Fourth Amendment rights within the context of evolving policing techniques. Law students learn the critical balance between police powers and individual rights, a recurring theme in constitutional law.