§ 542.276, RSMo - Who may apply for search warrant - contents of application, affidavit - where filed, hearing - contents of warrant - who may execute, return, when and how made - warrant deemed invalid, when

Cite as§ 542.276, RSMo

1. Any peace officer or prosecuting attorney may make application under section 542.271 for the issuance of a search warrant.

2. The application shall:

(1) Be in writing;

(2) State the time and date of the making of the application;

(3) Identify the property, article, material, substance or person which is to be searched for and seized, in sufficient detail and particularity that the officer executing the warrant can readily ascertain it;

(4) Identify the person, place, or thing which is to be searched, in sufficient detail and particularity that the officer executing the warrant can readily ascertain whom or what he or she is to search;

(5) State facts sufficient to show probable cause for the issuance of a search warrant;

(6) Be verified by the oath or affirmation of the applicant;

(7) Be filed in the proper court;

(8) Be signed by the prosecuting attorney of the county where the search is to take place, or his or her designated assistant.

3. The application may be supplemented by a written affidavit verified by oath or affirmation. Such affidavit shall be considered in determining whether there is probable cause for the issuance of a search warrant and in filling out any deficiencies in the description of the person, place, or thing to be searched or of the property, article, material, substance, or person to be seized. Oral testimony shall not be considered. The application may be submitted by facsimile or other electronic means.

4. The judge shall determine whether sufficient facts have been stated to justify the issuance of a search warrant. If it appears from the application and any supporting affidavit that there is probable cause to believe that property, article, material, substance, or person subject to seizure is on the person or at the place or in the thing described, a search warrant shall immediately be issued. The warrant shall be issued in the form of an original and two copies.

5. The application and any supporting affidavit and a copy of the warrant shall be retained in the records of the court from which the warrant was issued.

6. The search warrant shall:

(1) Be in writing and in the name of the state of Missouri;

(2) Be directed to any peace officer in the state;

(3) State the time and date the warrant is issued;

(4) Identify the property, article, material, substance or person which is to be searched for and seized, in sufficient detail and particularity that the officer executing the warrant can readily ascertain it;

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT