3.1: Introduction and Chapter Learning Objectives

“Those who wrote our constitutions knew from history and experience that it was necessary to protect against unfounded criminal charges brought to eliminate enemies and against judges too responsive to the voice of higher authority.”

—Duncan v. Louisiana, cited in Section 3.2 “The Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses”

 

This chapter focuses on the United States Constitution as it applies to those suspected of, accused of, or arrested for criminal activity. You will learn about limitations placed on agents of the government, including police officers, as they apply to investigating criminal activity, search and seizure, questioning of those suspected of crime as well as detaining and arresting those suspects.

After completing this chapter and associated coursework the student will be able to:

Learning Objectives

• LO 1: Compare and contrast reasonable suspicion and probable cause

• LO 2: Apply the provisions of the United States Constitution to situations involving free speech, assembly, detention, arrest, search, and seizure.

• LO 3: Compare and contrast arrest by a peace officer and a private person

• LO 4: Explain how diplomatic immunity impacts criminal liability

• LO 5: Analyze vicarious and civil liability as they apply to actions by government officials

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