When officers enter a non-public (private) place to execute a search warrant, they may detain anyone present on the premises.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only those named in the warrant
• D. Only visitors and customers present

Answer: (A)

When a valid search warrant is being executed at a private dwelling, officers may temporarily detain anyone who is on the premises. This is a safety and integrity measure: it helps prevent the destruction of evidence and reduces the risk of flight or confrontation while the search is conducted. The detention is intended to be brief and reasonable, not an arrest, and lasts only for the duration of the search.

This rule covers all persons present at the time of the search, not just those named in the warrant, and not only visitors. So it is appropriate to detain people who are on the scene during the search.