Opinion ID: 2008176
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Timing of the Seizure

Text: The critical issue in this case is the timing of the seizure. The State argues that the seizure did not occur until after Officer Pate observed an open bottle in the vehicle and noticed that defendant was exhibiting signs of intoxication. These observations obviously gave Officer Pate the reasonable suspicion necessary to detain defendant and to investigate further. Defendant contends, however, that the appellate court correctly determined that the seizure occurred prior to Officer Pate's observation of the open bottle. Defendant argues that he was seized for fourth amendment purposes when Officer Pate parked his vehicle in the middle of the street and approached defendant's car from the rear, while illuminating the car with a flashlight. Thus, according to defendant, we must determine whether Officer Pate had a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity sufficient to effectuate a seizure before he observed the open bottle. Defendant contends that the lower courts correctly concluded that such reasonable suspicion was lacking. We agree with the State that no seizure occurred until after Officer Pate had a reasonable suspicion that defendant was intoxicated while in control of a motor vehicle and thus do not address whether Officer Pate had a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity when he first approached defendant's vehicle.