Parties:
Adams v. Williams
Facts:
Robert Williams was arraigned in a state court within Connecticut for illegally possessing a handgun found when ‘‘stop and frisk’’ was conducted. During the search, the respondent was equally found in possession of heroin.
Prior proceedings:
William faced conviction in a state court within Connecticut for possessing a handgun illegally. When he was stopped and frisked, the officer also found a machete and heroin. The order passed by The Supreme Court of Connecticut was denied by the U.S. Supreme Court. Objecting to the charges, Williams opted to file a petition, but the district court denied it. Upon the hearing of the case in presence of all judges, he was handed relief by the Court of Appeals.
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Issues presented or questions of law:
Is it a must that stop and frisk is based on personal observation made by a police officer or it can rely on information provided by a third party?
Arguments or objectives of the parties:
In answer to the respondent that the officer breached the law, it was observed that the office did not violate law by ransacking a car and removing a handgun from a driver, with the reason to believe he was a threat to the public.
Holding/rule of law:
An officer is allowed by law to initiate a forceful stop to find out any wrong-doing. He or she is not prohibited by the fourth amendment to conduct a search for weapons upon believing that the individual is armed and as such a threat to public.
Rationale:
The court rejected the argument by the respondent that only the observation by an office can trigger stop and frisk cause.
Relation of case to the core value of integrity:
Saint Leo Core Value of Integrity demands all the members abide with its mission, besides delivering on its promise. The entire fraternity have made a pledge to remain just, consistent and honest in deeds and words. The court findings were that, the facts showed that, the deeds of the respondent at the time of arrest indicated threat to public.
