Which statement best describes the plain feel doctrine?

• A. It permits searches without a warrant
• B. It requires probable cause for a search
• C. It allows seizure of contraband detected by touch during a lawful stop
• D. It guarantees the right to counsel during interrogation

Answer: (C)

During a lawful stop or frisk, the plain feel doctrine allows a police officer to seize contraband detected by touch if its incriminating nature is immediately apparent. This is a narrow exception to the general warrant requirement and comes from Minnesota v. Dickerson, which holds that if the item’s identity as contraband is plainly revealed through the sense of touch, no further search is needed. The key limits are that the initial intrusion must be lawful and the incriminating nature must be immediately evident; if the object’s identity isn’t obvious, the officer generally can’t seize it under this doctrine and would need a warrant or probable cause. This doctrine does not authorize a blanket warrantless search, nor does it relate to the right to counsel during interrogation.