Under what circumstances can a police officer conduct a search without a warrant?

A police officer can conduct a search without a warrant under specific circumstances that are recognized by law, one of which includes consent from an individual. This means that if a person willingly agrees to allow the officer to search, no warrant is necessary. Exigent circumstances refer to situations where there is an urgent need to act, such as the imminent destruction of evidence or risk to safety; these circumstances justify a warrantless search. Additionally, searches that are incident to a lawful arrest are permissible; this allows officers to search the person being arrested and the immediate surroundings to ensure safety and prevent the destruction of evidence.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the legal grounds for warrantless searches. A signed confession does not automatically grant permission for a search. Relying solely on an officer’s instinct lacks a legal basis for a search without a warrant. Lastly, being at a public assembly does not inherently provide the grounds for a search; specific conditions would still need to apply to justify a warrantless action in that scenario.