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If you want to invoke your Constitutional rights, you gotta know what they say. Unfortunately for 2 Chainz and crew, the law just wasn’t on their side when police arrested the rapper and his entire entourage after finding pot on his bus last week.
See More: 2 Chainz’s Tour Bus Involved In Drug Bust
According to a report by TMZ, Chainz’ peeps held up a Constitution against the window of their bus after the driver told police he did not consent to a search of the bus.
Unfortunately for them, probably cause is all police need to search your vehicle if they think a crime is committed. While you can refuse a search of your vehicle, where probably cause exists, the search can continue, according to the ACLU.
But, that isn’t always the case, especially if you are in your own home! Here are a few more surprising things you might not know about search and seizure laws, arrests and your civil rights:
- You ALWAYS maintain the right to refuse a search of your home, car or your body… but the police maintain the right to pat you down if they suspect weapons, or to search your car.
- You ALWAYS maintain the right to remain silent, but you have to say so out loud. In the State of Texas, you must give your name is you are asked.
- If you are stopped on foot, do not resist. Ask if you can leave. If the officer says yes, you can leave–and you should do so calmly and orderly.
- If police ask to come into your residence, you may decline without a warrant. Furthermore, you may ask to inspect their warrant by having them slip it under the door or by viewing it through the window before you open your door.
- If you are arrested, do not resist. If you think your civil rights are being abused, you cannot fight this in the streets, but the courts. Do not get yourself into further trouble.
- Protect yourself if you are pulled over at night. Turn the lights on in your vehicle, and put your hands firmly on the steering wheel to avoid a confrontation with police. When approached, roll down the window and do NOT reach for anything in your vehicle until you are instructed to do so. You can help yourself by saying, “I am going to reach into my glove box for my insurance.”
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: The ACLU has a great downloadable guide on what to do when police show up from your front door to the car door. Download the PDF guide “Know Your Rights: What To Do If You’re Stopped By Police, Immigration Agents or the FBI” here.
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