Detaining individuals in a public place during execution of a search warrant is permitted if the persons are described in the warrant.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if the occupants consent
• D. Only if the warrant specifies a time limit

Answer: (B)

Detaining people during a search must be grounded in safety, control of the search scene, or a separate legal basis—not simply because someone is described in the warrant. A warrant authorizes the search of a specified location and the seizure of items, and it may allow temporary detentions of occupants inside that location to ensure safety and prevent destruction of evidence. Detaining individuals in a public place, merely because they are described in the warrant, would be an unlawful seizure unless there is another basis for arrest or detention (such as consent, probable cause for arrest, or exigent circumstances). Therefore, this scenario is not permitted, making the statement false.