Which of the following is NOT considered an exigent circumstance?

In the context of exigent circumstances, the concept refers to situations where law enforcement officials need to act quickly to prevent harm, destruction of evidence, or the escape of a suspect. Each of the situations listed typically represents scenarios where immediate action is justified without prior approval from a search warrant.

Waiting for a search warrant to be approved does not fit within the framework of exigent circumstances. In fact, one of the foundational principles of the Fourth Amendment is that individuals have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. This right includes the expectation that law enforcement will seek a warrant except in urgent situations. If there is no imminent threat to safety, evidence, or a suspect’s potential flight, officers are expected to wait and obtain a warrant, which involves a judicial review and a determination of probable cause. Therefore, choosing to wait for a warrant reflects an adherence to the legal process rather than an exigency.

In contrast, situations like danger to officers or third parties, destruction of evidence, and hot pursuit of a suspect are all typically recognized as exigent circumstances, justifying the immediate action without a warrant to protect safety, preserve evidence, or apprehend a fleeing suspect.