Opinion ID: 777318
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Officers' Initial Entry

Text: 20 It is clear that Lake and Holbrook's belief that Reed had the authority to consent to their entry was reasonable. Lake had seen Reed and Koch together often and believed them to be very close. Because the officer's initial entry into the house did not violate Koch's Fourth Amendment rights, he cannot prevail on his § 1983 claim based on their initial entry. 21 Although the officers' initial entry into the house was proper, it is important to note the basis of Reed's ability to consent to the search. Lake could have only reasonably believed that Reed had permission to gain access and not common authority over the area. Reed had access to the house and Lake knew that Reed and Koch frequently spent time together. However, Lake also knew that the two were not married, maintained separate residences 3 and at the most, occasionally spent the night at each other's residence. These facts suggest that Lake could not have reasonably believed that Reed had mutual use or joint access or control of the property. 4 22