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Do police have probable cause for arrest?

My roommate said if you get pulled over and the police officer finds a wad of cash in your car, they can arrest you because a wad of cash translates into probably a drug dealer. Can they really arrest you for this?

Update:

Now should I keep my cash in the cupholder by my knuckles or the dash by my machete. Figure glove box by the 357 would be too obvious.

7 Answers

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  • Bruce
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Carrying cash is not illegal, so it does not provide probable cause. There would have to be other evidence tying the cash to an illegal activity.

    Source(s): Law enforcement since 1991
  • rayven
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    They can detain you while asking you questions about the origin of the money, why you have so much, etc.

    And yes, they can confiscate it in some places under a procedure called "Civil Asset Forfeiture".

    Google it - it's a travesty of justice.

    Basically, if they suspect that the cash was used in a crime (drug related), they can confiscate it and make you prove that it is legally yours and wasn't involved in crime. Sickening procedure.

    If you have a large wad of cash, you had best be keeping it out of plain view to avoid this kind of thing.

  • 1 decade ago

    I've heard this, too... I don't think they'd arrest you, but they'd probably want to search your vehicle to make sure that it isn't from drugs, or illegal substance.

    Best bet would to keep it out of view, anyway...from everyone. They're not going to pull you over for that, and will have no probable cause to search your vehicle.

  • 1 decade ago

    They have a better idea - they confiscate your cash and don't arrest you and don't make a report.

  • 1 decade ago

    They can search your car but most likely not arrest you.

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    I smell a troll!

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Yes their total paranoia passes as probable cause. Lucky they didnt just beat you up and rob you. Thats legal you know.

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