JTP

http://www.sltrib.com/utah/ci_2408571

Talk about some petty tactics.

...But federal prosecutors insist no warrant is needed to swab a doorknob and run the test - called an Ionscan - to detect whether occupants and visitors have been in contact with drugs. The exterior of a home cannot be expected to remain untouched, they say, as friends, solicitors, proselytizers, campaign workers and delivery people come to the door. ...Assistant U.S. Attorney Leshia Lee-Dixon pointed out that visitors to Mora's home were directed by a sign to go around to the back door. The invitation meant officers could touch the door, she wrote in a court filing.


The only appellate ruling in such a case is from the Virgin Islands. In 1999, a trial judge threw out the analysis of a swab taken from a home's screen door, saying the search of the doorknob for marijuana residue violated the Fourth Amendment.


Ironic that they can't walk the dogs onto your property without a warrant, but they can creep up and 'rub on your knob'.

I think this is very silly.