Under what circumstance can a peace officer enter a property without a warrant?

A peace officer can enter a property without a warrant when they have probable cause to believe a crime is in progress. This is based on the exigent circumstances exception to the warrant requirement, which allows law enforcement to act quickly to prevent the potential destruction of evidence, the escape of a suspect, or harm to individuals. When officers suspect that a crime is actively occurring, they can take immediate action to enter the property to ensure public safety and uphold the law.

While being invited onto the property by the homeowner is also a valid reason for entry without a warrant, it doesn’t represent a scenario where officers must act swiftly based on the potential for ongoing criminal activity. Seeing a crime committed firsthand gives officers a strong basis for immediate action, as does the situation of an ongoing crime; both fall under the broader umbrella of protecting the community and enforcing the law. Scheduled inspections typically require advance notice and do not constitute an urgent scenario that justifies warrantless entry.