What is an inventory search associated with a warrantless search?

An inventory search is a procedure that law enforcement officers may conduct when they lawfully impound a vehicle, specifically after making an arrest. The purpose of an inventory search is to account for and document the items within the vehicle to safeguard the owner's property and protect the police department from claims of lost or stolen items.

When a vehicle is impounded, officers perform this inventory to catalog its contents. This process is meant to be standardized and does not require probable cause, a warrant, or the need to suspect any criminal activity within the vehicle. This contrasts with personal belongings or searches based on doctrines like plain view, which rely on different legal standards. By ensuring proper documentation, an inventory search also helps establish a clear chain of custody.