State v. James

We have before us a narcotic addict convicted of possessing a morphine tablet and sentenced to ten years in the penitentiary, as a multiple offender. Blighted as his life is, his personal cause evokes no ardent support. The constitutional question that he raises, however, is of grave import to all citizens. At issue is the security of the home.

The essential facts may be restated briefly: The defendant, James, left his home at 2013 Camp Street on the morning of June 19, 1961. Two officers of the New Orleans Police Department followed him. At that time, they intended only to observe his…