Hillsman v. State

OPINION

KEM THOMPSON FROST, Justice.

At issue in this case is the showing necessary to invoke the plain view doctrine for purposes of demonstrating probable cause under the scrutiny of the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution and article I, section 9 of the Texas Constitution.

Introduction

In a non-jury trial, the lower court found the appellant, Lawrence Charles Hillsman guilty of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, more than one gram and less than four grams. With the appellant’s conviction enhanced by two prior felonies, the court sentenced him to twenty-five years in…