Date of Defense
Fall 10-30-2018
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
Department
Sociology and Criminal Justice
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Christopher Totten
Committee Member
Dr. Gang Lee
Committee Member
Dr. Peter Fenton
Abstract
This survey study explores the perceptions, knowledge and experiences of police “line” officers concerning Fourth Amendment search and seizure norms and applications during traffic stops and vehicles searches, in particular police use of canine units following the landmark United States Supreme Court decision of Rodriguez v. United States. In particular, the study examines issues surrounding the length and scope of a traffic stop by police, including stops with canine involvement. Finally, the study includes an analysis of how federal courts of appeal and Georgia courts have interpreted the Rodriguez decision.