State v. Finlay

The state appeals an order suppressing evidence discovered during a warrantless search of a trailer attached to defendant’s vehicle. It contends that the search was lawful under the automobile exception to the warrant requirement and, therefore, that the trial court erred in granting defendant’s motion to suppress. On review for errors of law, State v. Ehly, 317 Or 66, 75, 854 P2d 421 (1993), we conclude that the search fell within the automobile exception. Accordingly, we reverse and remand.

The relevant facts are undisputed. Operating on a tip from an informant, Silverton Detective Aljets…