People v. Diaz

On a hot day in June, the attention of three narcotics officers was drawn to a certain gypsy cab. There was one person (later identified as Emeridiano Santiago) seated in the back seat, the windows were closed and the cab’s doors were locked. Upon closer inspection the officers spotted a loaded .25 caliber revolver lying in open view on the driver’s seat. Santiago was ordered to unlock the door and when he emerged he was placed under arrest. A search of his person revealed 15 glossine envelopes containing heroin. The officers attempted to search the interior of the cab but were hampered by…