HISET Social Studies Practice

What was a key issue in the Mapp v Ohio ruling?

1. Legality of evidence collection methods

2. Protection of First Amendment rights

3. Enforcement of juvenile rights

4. Standards for jury selection

The correct answer is: Legality of evidence collection methods

The Mapp v. Ohio ruling primarily focused on the legality of evidence collection methods, specifically addressing the issue of how evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure is treated in court. In this landmark decision, the Supreme Court determined that the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, is applicable to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment. This ruling established the exclusionary rule at the state level, meaning that any evidence obtained in violation of an individual’s constitutional rights cannot be used in criminal prosecutions. This case significantly reinforced the importance of following due process and safeguarding individual rights from unreasonable governmental actions, making it a foundational moment in the evolution of criminal justice in the United States.