Differentiate a search warrant from an arrest warrant.

Differentiate a search warrant from an arrest warrant.

• A. A search warrant authorizes the arrest of a named person.
• B. A search warrant authorizes searching a place for specified items; an arrest warrant authorizes the arrest of a named person.
• C. Both authorize the same actions.
• D. An arrest warrant also permits searches of locations.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that these two types of warrants serve different purposes and authorize different actions. A search warrant is issued to authorize a police search of a specific place for items described in the warrant and to seize those items. It does not by itself authorize the arrest of a person. An arrest warrant, on the other hand, names a person and orders that person’s arrest; it gives officers the authority to take that person into custody. It does not authorize a broad search of a location for evidence unless a separate search warrant is obtained or an applicable exception applies. The other options mix up these roles or suggest that both warrants authorize the same actions or that an arrest warrant also permits general searches, which isn’t correct.

The main idea is that these two types of warrants serve different purposes and authorize different actions. A search warrant is issued to authorize a police search of a specific place for items described in the warrant and to seize those items. It does not by itself authorize the arrest of a person. An arrest warrant, on the other hand, names a person and orders that person’s arrest; it gives officers the authority to take that person into custody. It does not authorize a broad search of a location for evidence unless a separate search warrant is obtained or an applicable exception applies. The other options mix up these roles or suggest that both warrants authorize the same actions or that an arrest warrant also permits general searches, which isn’t correct.