In the context of the Fourth Amendment, what does a "search" entail?

In the context of the Fourth Amendment, a "search" is understood as an examination of property with the intent to find criminal evidence. This definition encompasses a broad range of investigative activities beyond just looking inside a person's home. It includes examining various types of property, such as vehicles or personal belongings, for evidence that may indicate criminal activity.

The essence of this definition lies in the intent behind the examination and its purpose. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures, and this protection extends to any scenario where law enforcement has a motive to discover evidence related to criminal behavior. Such a search can vary in nature, depending on circumstances and the type of property involved, but the foundational principle remains focused on the intent of uncovering evidentiary material.

Surveillance of suspects without any physical entry may not constitute a search under the Fourth Amendment, as it often involves observing individuals in public where they do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Similarly, searching only with a valid warrant pertains more to the procedural requirements that law enforcement must meet prior to conducting a search rather than defining what constitutes a search itself. The examination of property is central to an understanding of what is meant by a search, highlighting the significance of evidence collection in law enforcement.