People v. Tyler

Loren Tyler and Robert Tompkins were convicted of conspiracy to burn real property. Tyler was also convicted of burning real property 2 and burning insured property with intent to defraud. 3

The fire occurred in premises leased by Tyler where he conducted a retail furniture business. Tompkins was a business associate of Tyler.

Physical evidence, taken by police and fire officials without a search warrant from the premises after the fire was extinguished, was admitted at the trial over objection.

The question is whether the authorities may enter fire-damaged premises without a warrant after the…