Different reasons can make the police come to your home or business. They may do so when conducting a welfare check (perhaps there is a report of a missing person), to interview you or a member of your household as a witness to an ongoing investigation, when a noise complaint is made or to serve a search or arrest warrant.
If this happens, do you have to let them in?
Here is what to do:
Ask if they have a warrant
When the police knock on your door, they are required to provide identification and state their purpose for being there. If they want to come in, ask for a warrant. If they say they have one, request them to slip it under the door or hold it up to the window. Verify the address listed, the date the warrant was issued, the items or areas to be searched and the name of the judge who issued the warrant.
If any detail is inaccurate, for instance, the address listed is not that of your home or business or the warrant is expired, let the police know immediately.
What if they don’t have one?
If the police don’t have a search warrant, they cannot enter your home unless you voluntarily consent to a search. Further, although not recommended, if you want to speak with the police without consenting to a search of your property, step outside and shut the door. You can also exercise your right to remain silent during such an interaction.
Note that the police may enter your home or business without a warrant in certain circumstances, such as when there is an immediate threat to life or safety.
The police may make a mistake when they come to your home or business. If you were treated unfairly, learn more about your options.