Second Circuit judges were perplexed by a Manhattan landlord's request that the court declare unconstitutional a New York City law requiring landlords who participate in Section 8 housing to allow searches of their premises. The plaintiff-the owner of a 48-unit residential apartment building-is appealing the dismissal of his case asserting the law violates his Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.
In January, AB 379 will take effect, reinstating a repealed law that criminalizes "loitering with intent to purchase commercial sex." Governor Gavin Newsom, signed the bill, saying it will help protect victims of human trafficking. However, critics are its unclear language will enable law enforcement to detain individuals based on the subjective suspicion of having an "intent to purchase a commercial sex act."
In March 2021, a 25-year-old US citizen was traveling through Chicago's Midway airport when they were stopped by US border patrol agents. Though charged with no crime, the 25-year-old was subjected to a cheek swab to collect their DNA, which was sent to the FBI, according to a new report. The unnamed citizen was later admitted into the country. Their DNA was added to the FBI's database of genetic material despite the lack of criminal charges.
Traditionally, drunk driving cases have been about an officer arresting someone when they pull up and smell alcohol or see bloodshot eyes. But some judges are saying in addition to that, you need evidence that the person is driving erratically or unlawfully.
U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer L. Thurston emphasized, 'You just can't walk up to people with brown skin and say, Give me your papers.' This highlights the crucial legal boundaries surrounding immigration stops.