The State of Washington v. Efrain Mendez

Summary

The court held that Washington's constitutional privacy protection permits police to control the driver during a valid traffic stop, but does not permit a categorical order requiring a passenger to remain in the vehicle. Police must articulate an objective rationale specifically grounded in safety concerns, and no such rationale supported Mendez's seizure or arrest. The court therefore reversed the judgment and suppression ruling and remanded. No separate opinions were filed.