In the Matter of Muhammad F., a Person Alleged to Be a Juvenile Delinquent, Respondent. Presentment Agency…

Summary

The New York Court of Appeals held that the suspicionless, roving patrol stops of taxicabs by plain‑clothes officers were unconstitutional seizures violating the Fourth Amendment, and therefore the evidence obtained in Muhammad F. must be suppressed, affirming the Appellate Division. Conversely, the Court reversed the Appellate Division’s decision in Boswell, reinstating the suppression order and holding the stop likewise unconstitutional. The opinion also articulated a three‑pronged balancing test for such stops. Justice Smith dissented, arguing the procedures were reasonable and did not violate constitutional rights.