‘Constitutional Absurdity’: Raw Marijuana Smell, Not Aroma of Burnt Pot, Justifies Vehicle Searches, Illinois’s Top Court Rules

The defendant’s lawyer said he plans to try to take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune
Illinois Supreme Court issues very confusing ruling on when police can stop a vehicle over smell of marijuana. Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune

Police officers in Illinois can conduct warrantless searches of vehicles based solely on the smell of raw cannabis, thanks to a decision by the Illinois Supreme Court on Thursday.

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