Tawa Ayeni v. James Mottola

JON O. NEWMAN, Chief Judge:

The quest of television reporters for on-the-scene coverage of dramatic events and the interest of law enforcement agencies in promoting their own image have combined to present for decision an appeal with important consequences for the right of privacy of those inside a home. The appeal arises because a Secret Service agent has been sued for inviting the crew of a TV news magazine into a private home to videotape a search. The principal issues are whether the agent’s conduct in bringing a television crew into a home violates the Fourth Amendment rights of a mother…