*1
Argued Oct. 1989.
Filed June 1990. *3 Swetz, James A. Stroudsburg, for appellant. Christine, E. David Dist. Atty., East Stroudsburg, Com., appellee. CIRILLO,
Before President Judge, CAVANAUGH, BROSKY, OLSZEWSKI, SOLE, DEL MONTEMURO, TAMILIA, KELLY, JOHNSON, JJ.
MONTEMURO, Judge: The issue on appeal is whether the taking and testing of a *4 blood sample for alcohol content pursuant to one of the “implied provisions consent” of the Motor Code, Vehicle Pa. 1547(a)(2),1 C.S.A. violates the federal and state § con prohibition stitutional against unreasonable searches and seizures. breath, We find that the blood and urine tests 1547(a)(2) authorized by Section are constitutionally invalid. We appellant’s reverse conviction and remand for a new trial. (Purdon 1547(a)(2) 1984).
1. 75 Pa. C.S.A. § Sharon Louise Dan- appellant, trial Following by jury, a influence of forth, under the driving was convicted of alcohol, 3731(a)(4). The trial denied judge Pa. C.S.A. § a appellant sentenced to motions and appellant’s post-trial (48) consecu- imprisonment forty-eight minimum term year. term of one hours to a maximum tive 29, 1987, September During early morning hours the help a call for from police received Coolbaugh Township call, police to the responding Byrd residence. While accident which had occurred encountered a serious one-car The of the residence. driv- Byrd few hundred south yards The discov- unoccupied. police side of the vehicle was er’s of life passenger apparent signs that with no ered a male a tree impacted remained in the car. The car had with on the side of the road. stump utility pole lying and a to the investigating Byrd The officer continued police appellant residence he found who identified herself where Appellant involved in the accident. as driver car at told the officer that earlier she had been the Swiftwater Inn met a her he lived where she man who told near request, appellant At the man’s her Pocono Farms. ride, the During to him a ride home. man agreed give clothes, at at lunged grabbed her and tried to appellant, him Appellant stop remove her told to several blouse. times, persisted. appellant but he When tried defend she lost control of pushing passenger away, herself her nearby the car which ran off the road into a wooded area. Byrd ran to the residence and appellant After accident called police. encouraged appellant go officer her injuries. appel- for treatment of facial While
hospital receiving hospital, the officer lant was treatment hospital questions. to the to ask more When asked came had told the happened, appellant the officer to recount what she had earlier at the residence. story Byrd same told while and the severity Based on the the accident fact solely occurred, ask appel- had the officer decided to death sample. for a At no time did the officer suspect lant blood *5 appellant that was under the influence of alcohol. There her, nowas odor of alcohol about her complexion appeared normal, bloodshot, her were eyes her while balance normal, standing was she did not need any help walking. appellant The officer told he investigat- ing part accident that as investiga- the accident tion he sample wanted to obtain a of her blood for analysis. Appellant agreed to have sample a of her blood taken. The appellant officer did not tell that the part blood test was investigation, a criminal that if sample resulted a blood alcohol content of or more she could charged .10% be prosecuted for driving under the influence. did not He appellant Miranda give warning or inform her that she bemay giving against evidence herself. At no time was appellant asked to sign a consent form. A labo- hospital ratory technician drew blood from appellant and turned the over sample police to the officer. The crime lab test results revealed blood alcohol level. .21%
Appellant was arrested accident, several weeks after the 16, 1987, on October and charged with driving under the influence,2 vehicle,3 by homicide homicide vehicle while driving under the influence4 and [failing vehicle to] driv[e] speed.5 at safe pre-trial motions,
In her appellant moved to suppress results test on blood the basis that the test was taken in violation of her federal and state right constitutional against unreasonable searches and seizures. suppres- sion court denied the finding motion to suppress, appellant’s consent to the implied blood test was under the implied provision consent Code, Motor Vehicle 75 Pa. 1547(a)(2). C.S.A. The court never addressed the issue § whether appellant voluntarily consented After test. a trial jury, appellant was driving convicted of under the 3731(a). 2. Pa. C.S.A. § Pa.
3. 75 C.S.A. 3732. §
4. Pa. C.S.A. 3735. §
5.
Pa.
C.S.A.
3361.
§
her
motions.
post-trial
denied
The trial court
influence.
*6
timely appeal.
this
brought
sentencing, appellant
Following
pursu-
administered
the blood test
argues Appellant
Code was unconsti-
1547(a)(2) of the Motor Vehicle
ant to §
probable
officer lacked
cause to
police
tutional because
agree.
influence. We
under the
appellant was
believe
1547(a)(2)
OF
UNDER
I. CONSTITUTIONALITY
§
FEDERAL
THE
CONSTITUTION
United
Consti
The
Amendment
States
Fourth
of the
to be secure
right
people
provides
tution
“[t]he
effects,
houses,
against
and
unrea
papers,
persons,
their
seizures,
violated,
no
and
shall
be
sonable searches
issue,
cause ... “U.S.
upon probable
Warrants shall
but
Const,
to the
applies
Amendment
amend. IV. The Fourth
of the
of the Fourteenth Amendment
by virtue
States
T.L.O.,
325,
469
v.
U.S.
Jersey
Federal Constitution. New
334,
733, 738,
(1985).
720
The Fourth
83 L.Ed.2d
105 S.Ct.
against arbitrary
as a constraint
Amendment functions
privacy,
into an individual’s
government
intrusions
Court,
Municipal
387
security.
v.
dignity,
Camara
(1967);
523, 528,
1727, 1730,
implicated, we
agents.
v.
or its
Commonwealth
ble to
Government
(cita
317,
(1985)
77,
320-21
Cieri, 346
Pa.Super.
omitted);
Pa.Super.
Lapia,
v.
tions
Commonwealth
264,
(1983),
on
Common
grounds,
A.2d 877
rev’d
other
(1985). At
Pa.
It is well-established that the
administration of
falling
blood alcohol test
a search
within the
protection
the Fourth Amendment. Skinner v. Railway Labor Exec
Association,
utives’
602, -,
489 U.S.
109 S.Ct.
citing Schmerber v. Califor
As
general
rule,
a
a search or seizure is not
reasonable unless it is
pursuant
conducted
to
search
warrant
aby
issued
magistrate upon a showing
probable
Quarles,
cause. v.
363, 377,
229 Pa.Super.
452,
324
A.2d
460
quoting Commonwealth v.
Maione,
Pa.Super. 239,
227
556,
(1974).
See
Payton
York,
also
New
573, 586,
1371,
100 S.Ct.
(1980).
L.Ed.2d
The warrant
requirement
separate
probable
from the
requirement, and,
cause
even if
Likewise,
breathalyzer
6.
collecting
testing
test
of a urine
sample
meaning
are searches within the
of the Fourth Amendment.
Association,
602, -,
Railway
Skinner v.
Labor Executives’
489 U.S.
1412, 1413,
(1989) (citations
109 S.Ct.
omitted).
S.Ct. York, L.Ed.2d 917 40, 88 S.Ct. testified that he in this case investigating officer under testing blood for appellant’s requested sample Code of the Motor Vehicle provision authority the driver is tests in the event blood permits which The officer death results. in an accident which involved consent law” provision “implied referring provides: which testing determine smoimt of alco- 1547. Chemical
§ hol substance or controlled
(a) drives, operates or person who rale.—Any General of a of the movement motor is in actual control physical deemed to have shall be vehicle this Commonwealth breath, one or more chemical tests given consent determining the alcohol- purpose blood or urine for the of a controlled sub- presence ic content of blood grounds to be- stance if a officer has reasonable or in person driving, operating to have been lieve of a motor ve- control of the movement physical actual hicle:
(2) in an accident in which the which was involved or any or of vehicle involved a operator passenger facility or pedestrian required treatment at a medical killed. 1547(a)(2). 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 1547(a)(2), ap-
The court that under suppression found § the chemical test- pellant given implied had her consent of blood, operator had the a ing of her since she been in death and resulting bodily- involved in an accident vehicle Ap- at medical facility. treatment a injury required which 1547(a)(2) were concedes that the conditions of pellant § Appellant met. claims a test performed under the authority 1547(a)(2) is unconstitutional in the absence § of probable cause to believe the driver was under influence of alcohol. question whether,
The must we decide is in authorizing blood, or breath urine test of a person who is reason- ably believed to have been driving a vehicle involved an accident resulting death or bodily injury requiring medi- care, 1547(a)(2) cal authorizes an “unreasonable search.” § We hold that searches pursuant 1547(a)(2) conducted to § are unreasonable.
A.
Warrant Requirement
1547(a)(2)
Section
empowers
police officer to order
the taking
testing
of a driver’s blood without a warrant.
In Schmerber, supra,
Court
held
importance
collecting
samples
blood
justified waiving the
requirement
warrant
under
the “exigent circumstances”
Fourth
exception
Amendment warrant
requirement.
Schmerber,
B. Probable Cause 1547(a)(2) Section authorizes seizure and search an accused’s blood on based solely fact that he or driving she was a vehicle which was involved in an accident in which death or an injury requiring medical treatment occurred. The authority to conduct the test on hinges happening mere of a motor vehicle accident and on the severity injuries to the people involved in the accident. The statute does not require any evidence of alcohol or drug use 1547(a)(2), the driver. Under § police officer order may blood, breath, a test a driver’s urine, where, one, even such cases as this the driver gives every indication of sobriety and an immediate and *9 exists. A factual the accident explanation for contrary 1547(a)(2) set meeting the bare conditions scenario § of requirement Amendment satisfy the Fourth not does police the officer case Specifically, cause. this probable had been appellant cause to believe probable lacked The officer influence of alcohol. under the driving while on the suspect part intoxication that he did not testified signs of alcohol typical of the any or notice appellant breath, on alcohol eyes, such as bloodshot consumption, maintain balance while inability a staggering walk to for the Further, explanation offered an appellant standing. car while she lost control her of the accident: cause to remove trying passenger with her who struggling and circumstances Nothing the facts clothes. appellant’s appellant officer warranted a belief that to the known See Commonwealth driving under influence. had been Smith, supra Pa.Super. 555 A.2d at at (1989) (“Probable an officer has knowl- cause exists when circumstances, gained through of sufficient facts and edge information, prudent a man to be- trustworthy warrant (cita- crime.”) has a person seized committed lieve that omitted). tion that a on the of the solely
We hold test administered basis 1547(a)(2) set is an unrea existence conditions § Amendment, prohibited by search Fourth since sonable 1547(a)(2) meeting do a support facts criteria § the driver of the finding probable cause believe was under the influence.7 vehicle Exception “Special
C. Needs” probable While both the existence of cause and bear requirement a warrant on reasonableness search, neither is re exceptional certain circumstances quired. Skinner, supra at -, S.Ct. at Almeida-Sanchez, supra at 661; at 103 L.Ed.2d probable to believe a 7. note that if officer does have cause We an influence, driving been under the officer has driver has blood, authority test under Pa. C.S.A. to order breath or urine 1547(a)(1). constitutionality pursuant of tests administered § Quarles, 1547(a)(1) supra upheld. has been § Pa.Super. 666. A.2d at *10 12
277,
(Powell,
93
at 2541
J., concurring).
S.Ct.
In a limited
cases,
number of
Supreme
the United States
Court has held
that a
probable
warrantless search conducted without
cause
may nevertheless
the test of
withstand
un
reasonableness
the
needs,
der
Fourth Amendment
“special
when
beyond
enforcement,
the
need for law
normal
make the warrant
impracticable.” Skinner,
probable-cause requirement
at -,
supra
1414,
489 U.S.
109
at
quoting Griffin
S.Ct.
Wisconsin,
868, 873-874,
v.
483
3164, 3168,
U.S.
107 S.Ct.
National Treasury
(1987);
Importantly,
cases
civil
involve
taking
searches
place outside of the context of criminal
Raab,
supra,
See Von
investigations.
(United
States Cus
drug testing
toms Service
of employees seeking transfer or
positions); Skinner,
promotion
supra,
to certain
(Federal
Railroad
regulations
Administration safety
alco
authorizing
Wisconsin,
hol and drug testing
of employees);
Griffin
supra,
(search probationer’s home); O’Connor v. Orte
709,
ga,
1492,
(1987)
107 S.Ct.
Railroad Administration
part,
in
mandate
Although
8.
involving minimally
in certain cases
intrusive searches
arising
in
criminal
context
Court has relaxed the
standard,
probable
required
showing
cause
Court has still
a
suspicion
justify
individualized
reasonable
the searches in these
Sokolow,
U.S. -,
1581,
instances. See United States v.
109 S.Ct.
(1989);
104 L.Ed.2d
Hensley,
United States v.
469 U.S.
105 S.Ct.
(1985);
Prouse,
We refuse to extend the holding of Skinner context of a criminal investigation driving of a under the influence noted, case. As this has Court prosecution defendant a criminal has much at
[a] reputation, stake-his work, his continued capacity *12 important, most his The rights freedom. him provided are Fourth Amendment most important when the so high. stakes are Quarles, supra, Pa.Superior Ct. at
381, 324 at A.2d 462. we recognize While the substantiality of the Commonwealth’s in interest eradicating problem of drunk driving, recognize and we that evidence of blood time, alcohol diminishes with we cannot conclude that highly blood, intrusive breath urine designed tests lead to for evidence use in criminal proceedings are consti- valid in tutionally of probable absence cause. In Schmerber, supra, the Supreme Court that police noted must evidence of drunk-driving have a suspect’s impairment forcing before him or her to endure a blood test: The interests in dignity human and privacy which the Fourth Amendment protects forbid any such intrusions might on mere chance that desired evidence be ob- of a clear indication that in fact tained. the absence found, these fundamental such evidence will be human law officers to suffer the risk that such require interests may disappear. evidence
Schmerber, supra 769-70, 1835. S.Ct. at We in find no current Court cases which authority standard, would a relaxation of the support probable cause Amendment, in plain embodied text of the Fourth blood, breath and urine tests at issue this case.9 1547(a)(2) We hold that authorizes unreasonable § taking searches violation of the Fourth Amendment. The testing appellant’s blood amounted an unconstitu- tional search and seizure. The results of the blood test were not admissible at trial. 1547(a)(2)
II. CONSTITUTIONALITY OF UNDER § PENNSYLVANIA CONSTITUTION ARTICLE
I, SECTION 8 counterpart state constitutional to the Fourth provides: Amendment found Article Section which dissenting acknowledges opinion 9. While the the that the Skinner situations, expressly holding Court its limited to non-law-enforcement holding the dissent maintains that an extension of the Skinner to the prosecutions context of criminal is nonetheless warranted under the application facts of this case. The dissent’s established doctrine on search and of Skinner contradicts seizure, requires showing which or, cases, probable suspicion, supra cause in some reasonable see prosecutorial note before a search for evidence can be conducted. question important There is no that the Commonwealth has an inter- removing est in wealth has the such drunk drivers from the roads and that the Common- power driving Any to criminalize under the influence. however, regulation, comply must with constitutional mandates. destroyed party The concern that evidence will be lost or or that a will escape ing accountability justification from has been never for eliminat- or, requirement probable that the have cause in those searches, involving minimally suspicion cases intrusive reasonable that the desired evidence will be found. Nor has the rate of occur- *13 particular type justification rence of a of criminal offense ever been a conducting probable searches without cause the search where involves the level of intrusion involved in the tests issue here. A, As discussed it above section is well settled that a officer obtaining sample need not secure a warrant before a blood from a person suspected driving under influence. Security 8. from searches and seizures § shall secure in people persons, houses, be their papers possessions from unreasonable searches and seizures, and no warrant to search any place or to seize shall any person things describing issue without them be, nearly may cause, as as nor without probable sup- or affirmation ported by oath by subscribed affi- ant. CONST, 1,
PA. art. 8.§ hold today While we the searches authorized by 1547(a)(2) constitution, find, the federal violate we also as § law, independent a matter of state of the federal constitu tion, that the searches are constitutionally invalid under our rule, state general constitution. As a the Pennsylvania requires showing Constitution of probable cause before a search or seizure occurs.10 1547(a)(2) Since does not § require any blood, evidence of a crime upon which the breath, based, may and urine tests be we conclude that the 1547(a)(2) tests by authorized offend our constitution’s § restraints against unreasonable searches and seizures. I,
In interpreting 8, article section Supreme our Court has explained the interplay between the federal and state consti- tutional protection of fundamental liberties:
While minimum federal guarantees constitutional are “equally applicable [analogous] state constitutional provision,” see, e.g., Platou, 455 Pa. 2, (1973), 260 n. denied, A.2d n. cert. S.Ct. L.Ed.2d 1146 the state has the power provide broader standards than those mandated the federal Constitution: circumstances, 10. Supreme a limited number of our Court has requirement probable relaxed the adopted traditional cause and balancing test used the United States Court in Fourth cases, I, analyzing by balancing Amendment the individual’s conducting 290-91, article section 8 issues privacy against governmental interests interest in Tarbert, the search. See Commonwealth 517 Pa. (1987) (applying Fourth Amendment balancing roadblocks). systematic driving test to drunk test in the We find that application balancing present inappro- case would be priate, given high 1547(a)(2) level of intrusiveness of the § searches.
17
It is well settled that a state may provide through its
rights
constitution a basis for the
and liberties of its
independent
citizens
from that provided
the Federal
Constitution, and
the rights
guaranteed may
so
be
expansive
more
than
their
federal
counterparts.
Robins,
Shopping
Prune-Yard
Center v.
74,
447 U.S.
80-82,
2035, 2040-41,
(1980);
100 S.Ct.
This Court has not hesitated to
interpret
Pennsylvania
Constitution
as affording
greater
protection to defen
See,
Common
e.g.,
dants than the
federal Constitution.
wealth
Bussey,
v.
221,
(1979);
486 Pa.
L.Ed.2d
455 Pa.
314 A.2d
3172,
Commonwealth
Sell,
1037-38,
504 Pa.
A.2d at
quoting
46, 63-64,
466-67
instances,
imposed higher
our Courts have
several
*15
than the standards
on searches and seizures
standards
the Federal Constitution. See Commonwealth
required by
I,
8,
Sell,
(under Article
section
defendant who
supra
v.
possessory offense has automatic stand
charged
with
to
fruit
challenge admissibility
alleged
of evidence
be
ing
seizure);
DeJohn,
illegal
search and
Commonwealth v.
32,
(1979),
denied, 444
486 Pa.
III. ACTUAL CONSENT argues that the test results Commonwealth voluntarily at trial con appellant were admissible because actual, testing. to the It is that an sented well-settled to a search eliminate the warrant and voluntary consent will of the Fourth Amendment. probable requirements cause
19
Bustamonte,
v.
Schneckloth
218,
2041,
412
U.S.
36
Walsh,
v.
(1973);
L.Ed.2d 854
314
Pa.Su-
citing Zap
United
65,
767,
per.
460 A.2d
771
States,
624, 628,
1277, 1279,
66
“[W]hether tion of fact which must be determined in from the each case Walsh, totality of the circumstances.” supra quoting Com- Pa.Super. at 460 A.2d at Watkins, monwealth v. supra Pa.Super.
A.2d at 679. factors mitigate Some relevant favor of a finding consent was are: voluntary
(1) if the defendant’s background indicates his under- standing investigating procedures understanding his Dressner, of his rights, constitutional [Commonwealth 154, 157, 232 Pa.Super. (2) if (1975)]; the suspect search, has aided an investigation or as by *16 Id.; providing (3) if key, the consenter believed the evidence to be so well concealed that it probably would discovered, Id.; (4) not be the fact of some prior coopera- tion by the consenter produced which no incriminating Id.; evidence, (5) if the consenter was advised of his Id.; (6) if rights prior consent, constitutional his giving suspect felt that the best course of conduct was cooperation given the fact the he had caught been virtual- Commonwealth Griffin, “red-handed”, ly 232 Pa.Su- 163, 169, per. 336 A.2d 421 (1975); (7) presence probable cause to arrest or search the sus- pect, Commonwealth v. Thompson, 292 Pa.Super. 108, 113-14, (1981). 436 A.2d Mancini, Commonwealth v. Pa.Super. 592, 603-604, 490 A.2d Some of the factors that weigh against a finding consent voluntary was are:
(1) that the defendant interrogated was numerous times Common- while the hours, defendant was in for custody Smith, wealth v. 220, 228-29, 470 Pa. 368 A.2d (1977) (a in questioned custody defendant was while hours); (2) used or express implied twelve that the consent, Id.; (3) the defendant’s that the threats obtain order, in acquiesced suggestion, request defendant an Id.; (4) the lack of cause to police, probable Commonwealth v. Thomp- arrest or search the subject, son, supra. Mancini, supra Pa.Super. at
In
of these
find that
light
appellant’s
we
Nothing
appellant’s background
consent was not valid.
an understanding
investigating
indicates that she has
of her
procedures
understanding
rights.
or an
constitutional
in the record
that she had
encounters
Nothing
any
shows
justice system prior
with the criminal
to her arrest
this
case, or that she
ever
in the
enforcement
employed
was
law
Walsh,
Commonwealth v.
Further,
supra,
field.
this
any understanding
investigative proce
Court noted that
weigh
finding
intelligent
dures would not
in favor of a
of an
in the
knowing
consent
absence
some awareness
being
part
the blood test
consented to was
of a criminal
Walsh,
investigation. Commonwealth v.
supra
314 Pa.Su
75-76,
Further, appellant had not been caught “red-handed” in act, some criminal and the police did not probable have cause to arrest her or order the blood test. On the basis of circumstances, all of these appellant’s we hold that consent was not valid.12 giving
11. We do not warnings hold that the necessary of Miranda is finding for a of valid warnings consent. The absence of Miranda is supports one factor finding appellant which was unaware of the investigation. criminal nature of the Dissenting 12. Opinion, Judge Kelly In his completely and without foundation analysis injecting mischaracterizes our as a Fifth Amend- "knowing intelligent” ment analysis waiver into a Fourth Amend- above, voluntary ment consent case. As stated whether a consent voluntary must be determined in totality each case from the circumstances, in consideration of the factors delineated above. We give do not hold warning precludes that the failure to a Miranda *18 breath, and urine tests authorized We hold that blood 1547(a)(2) constitute unrea- of the Motor Vehicle Code by § consti- searches in violation of our federal and state sonable not conclude that officer did have tutions. We of taking testing appel- to order and probable cause blood, did not consent to the appellant validly lant’s and alcohol test administered test. Because the blood rights, constitutional the results appellant’s violation of See Commonwealth at trial. the test were not admissible Williams, Pa.Super. and remand for a new of sentence judgment We vacate trial. relinquished. and remanded. Jurisdiction is
Vacated CIRILLO, Judge, President by Joined JOHNSON, CAVANAUGH, DEL JJ. SOLE OLSZEWSKI, J., concurring opinion. files a TAMILIA, J., dissenting opinion joined by files a BROSKY, J.
KELLY, J.,
dissenting opinion.
files a
supra
finding
n. 11. We find the case of
of valid consent. See
Wabh, supra,
particularly
to be
relevant because
similarity
upon by
case at hand. The cases relied
its factual
dissent either
to the
easily distinguishable
support
holding
from
our
or are
Slaton,
example,
Pa.Super.
in Commonwealth v.
this case. For
301,
appellant pharmacist
(1989),
panel
banc
of this Court held that the
The decision
by
majority
compelled
reached
long-standing precedent. Taking
samples
blood
constitutes
a search and seizure. Schmerber v.
California,
757,
1826,
(1966).
Where, here, as reason only for the blood test is the accident, severity illegal blood test is an search and seizure. If police officer in this case had noticed any signs intoxication, such an alcohol, as odor of bloodshot eyes, lack of coordination or speech, slurred the blood test would have been authorized 1547(a)(1). Pa.C.S.A. § See, e.g., Commonwealth v. Haynos, Pa.Super.
A.2d 394 Pa.Super. Pelkey, (1985) A.2d (probable cause on based existence of an accident and odor of breath). alcohol on the driver’s our Consequently, decision affects only those cases in which the officer requesting the blood test has no reason to suspect intoxication.
Furthermore, I while concur with the majority’s conclu- sion that did not appellant actually consent to the blood test, I disagree Mi- majority’s with the suggestion randa warnings necessary are for valid consent. It is sufficient if the tested person understands the nature and to refuse. Miranda purpose right of the blood test and the consent, warnings may be evidence of voluntary they but required. are not
TAMILLIA, Judge, dissenting: This case involves one-car accident which the passen- accident, killed. ger Following was the appellant, who driving, nearby went to a residence she where called responded police. the call and on the way residence, to the encountered a car with the driver side unoccupied passenger and the dead. The gone car had off *20 the stump road and struck a tree and a utility pole which Moreover, was on the side of lying the road. of its because force and the speed, impaled vehicle became on the pole through the passenger compartment killing the passenger. residence, At the the appellant identified herself to the as the police police driver. She informed the that earlier in Inn, evening, at an she while met the man who her was passenger, driving home, and while him lunged he had at her, attempting to her In defending remove blouse. her- self, she lost control of the vehicle and ran off the road. accident, After the she Byrd ran to the residence from police. where she called the The police encouraged her to go to the hospital for treatment of her facial injuries. While she receiving was treatment at the hospital, police there and questioned arrived her.
Based on the severity of the accident and the death of the passenger, requested appellant officers to provide them sample. They with blood did not detect an odor alcohol on her nor they breath were able to any observe usual indicators of Appellant alcohol use. consented to the tested, test and her blood after the lab work done by police, with a blood alcohol content of per .21 cent. Police warnings did not her nor inform her give they Miranda did charges the test could result in criminal if she was according legal found to be intoxicated standards established law. cent,
As a result of the test finding per blood .21 appellant charged driving influence, was with under the vehicle, homicide by driving homicide vehicle while under driving the influence and speed. Following unsafe her arraignment and, course, in due a motion to suppress the presented alleging blood test was blood test was inadmissible as evidence probable because there was no test, obtaining cause for a blood appellant had not been warned that she subject prosecution, was to criminal she not informed she was was entitled to counsel under court denied Miranda. trial the motion and held that statute, because of the implied consent 75 Pa.C.S. § Chemical testing to determine amount of alcohol or con- substance, police trolled had a right to obtain the blood Thereafter, sample. trial, appellant, following a jury alcohol, convicted only driving under the influence of 3731(a)(4). Following Pa.C.S. post-trial denial of her mo- § tions, appellant (48) was sentenced to forty-eight hours to (1) one year imprisonment. appeal This followed.
The majority acknowledges
police procedure
con-
written,
formed with the
statute as
analyzing Skin-
ner v. Railway
Association,
Labor Executives’
I with the result respectfully disagree by reached and believe that of the majority throughout Opinion, most it provided supporting has law and judicial interpretations permit finding which sufficient constitutionality, justify testing under the circumstances of this case. It is only the conclusion of the and its majority refusal to take Skinner, supra, step interpreting necessary both other cases to sustain the constitutionality of statute to statute, which I dissent. It is that the my belief under the case, limited very special circumstances of this class of supplies the necessary probable substitute cause due to important public which, interest very considerations when against interests, balanced the private require the exercise of a search.
As the Skin developed majority Opinion tracking ner analysis, every aspect search and seizure related to this case has been identified and resolved. Skinner had to do regulations pursuant with railroad to the Federal Rail Safety road Act of 1970 which authorized the secretary transportation promulgate rules and regulations for all areas of safety. Finding railroad drug alcohol and poses abuse railroad employees serious threat safety, (FRA) the Federal Railroad Administration promul gated regulations mandating blood and urine tests of em ployees who were involved certain train accidents.1 Skinner involved a motion certain employees of rail case, roads to enjoin regulation. course, in due reached the Supreme Court, United States which reversed Appeals the Court of in its holding that these regulations were violative of the fourth amendment search and seizure provisions. reversing court, the appeals the Supreme Court directed its attention to the multi-faceted fourth amendment issues presented, resolving all of them in favor of the interest of public rather than the private interest of the individual. provisions regulations,
1. There were dealing testing other with occurred, employees suspicion on mere when no accident had approved by which were discussed and Court but which are not relevant to this review. *22 blood, found that urine holding, In Court so to the Federal Constitu- subject tests were breathalyzer and It found that application. fourth amendment tion’s therefore, and, such government agent FRA was an regulations. their rights applied to fourth amendment a search or seizure say went on to that whether Skinner fourth the Federal Constitution’s is reasonable under surrounding on all the circumstances depends amendment prohibitions The fourth amendment search or seizure. relate to unreasonable search against search and seizure in certain well-de- except and seizure. It reaffirmed circumstances, in criminal case is a search or seizure a fined is the fourth amendment unless it not reasonable under upon judicial to a warrant issued accomplished pursuant However, inquiry as to cause. evaluation probable did not end seizure under these circumstances search and warrant, pursuant to the fourth requiring there. seizure, amendment, purpose search and is justify authorized lawby assure the citizen that the intrusion scopes, limited in the narrowly objectives and that it is of a neutral provides scrutiny and also for the detached ensures an determination magistrate objective and thus case. Skin- justified any given an intrusion is whether ner cited the cases which hold that we must strike the procedure favor of the described the warrant balance in most cases. clause of the fourth amendment criminal However, to the rule when special recognized exceptions it needs enforcement make beyond the normal need law probable requirements impracticable. the warrant and cause Wisconsin, U.S. Griffin L.Ed.2d needs, special faced with such we have not hesi-
“When
governmental
privacy
tated to balance the
interest
and the
practicality
probable
assess the
warrant
e.g.,
See
in the
context.”
requirements
particular
cause
supra
In Skinner at footnote stated: court “We leave for day another the question whether routine use in criminal prosecutions evidence obtained pursuant to the adminis- give scheme trative would rise to an inference of or pretext, impugn the otherwise administrative nature of the Agency’s It program.” would deal possibility with regulations pretext were a to law enable enforcement au- gather to of penal thorities evidence law violations. How- ever, in to decide refusing that issue because it was not Skinner presented, there did not rule out a statute such as which, here, that with which deal we without in- pretext, use the implied consent of the individual enable tends blood, procurement of from evidence or breathalyzer urine tests in order to that person determine whether had violated in driving while under the influence. The rationale law Skinner, that neither a proba- warrant nor a showing suspicion required ble cause to permit reasonable is regulation, intrusion for the purposes is applicable here, scrutiny governmental statute under and the as as a just important interest involved the statute FRA. promulgated by such as that regulation of a purpose on to state that an essential goes Skinner interests protect privacy is to requirement warrant or seizure that such ensuring subject citizens to search govern acts of arbitrary are not the random or intrusions A assures the"citizen that the intru agents. ment warrant it is limited in narrowly sion is authorized law and that New York v. scope. e.g., Burger, its See objectives A 96 L.Ed.2d at at 2636. supra at S.Ct. provides scrutiny warrant also the detached of a neutral magistrate objective and thus ensures an determination an intrusion is case. justified any given whether See *24 Chadwick, 1, 9, 97 S.Ct. United States (1977). The makes Supreme L.Ed.2d 538 Court then here, point essential which needs to be made that in the context a do little present warrant would these further at -, Paraphrasing Skinner, supra aims. S.Ct. -, 103 L.Ed.2d at both justifying the circumstances toxilogical testing the permissible limits of such intru in narrowly sions are defined the statute specifically provides which authorizes them. This focus necessary supplied by showing restriction which is a of normally probable cause and the a by disinterested review neutral magistrate. on the may rely presumption
While we that every knows the for this body purpose, law terms its exact content, presume textual we knows that one may everybody may not drive under the influence of alcohol. Carry while ing logic Skinner, light further the propounded by standardized nature of the tests and minimal discretion charged administering in those the testing, vested with magistrate there are no facts for a virtually neutral at -, at -, Skinner, evaluate. supra S.Ct. further, Going L.Ed.2d at 663. Court stated it recognized government’s dispensing interest with the when, here, is at as requirement strongest warrant its obtaining to frustrate the likely burden warrant governmental purpose behind the search. They concluded imposing requirement a warrant in the context of a railroad accident would add little to the assurance of cer- tainty and regularity already afforded regulation, and, significantly hindering cases, while in many frustrat- ing the objectives government’s program. There- fore, the warrant is not essential to render the intrusion at issue with reasonableness requirement of the fourth amendment. The identical considerations are applicable here.
Going forward to the next
prong
search and seizure
amendment,
under the fourth
Skinner
analyzed
the find-
ings that even when a warrant is not required
general
as a
matter, a search may not be instituted
probable
unless
cause exists to
person
believe the
violated the law. Skin-
ner held that a
showing
individualized suspicion is not a
constitutional floor below which a search must be presumed
Martinez-Fuerte,
unreasonable. United States v.
428 U.S.
543, 560,
3074, 3084,
L.Ed.2d 1116
In
limited circumstances where the privacy interests implicated
by the search are minimal and
important
where an
govern-
mental interest
furthered
the intrusion would be placed
in jeopardy by
requirement
of individualized suspicion, a
search may
despite
be reasonable
the absence of such
suspicion. We believe this is true of the intrusions in
Schmerber v. California, question here.
*25
(1966),
S.Ct.
A
of the Pennsylvania
is,
review
case law on this issue
degree,
a
but does not
informative
address the constitution-
Quarles,
In
Commonwealth v.
ality
provision.
of such a
(1974),
We are now faced for the first time with the issue as to whether, under section blood taken may solely be 1547(a)(2), implied provision because of the consent and without probable existence cause terms of physical appearance or odors of alcohol. The majority bright draws a line at the
33 exist, holding that the cause did not probable where point to the extent are unconstitutional provisions consent implied therein requirement cause is contained probable that a statute. or read into the rule leap, majority ignores primary
In
this
making
statute,
is that
of a
which
examining
constitutionality
of
constitu
must find
favor
possible,
to the extent
we
Com.,
Transp. v. McFar
Dept.
of a statute.
tionality
of
(1987).
evident
ren,
clearly
A.2d 1185
It is
514 Pa.
525
411,
probable
not intend to have a
cause
legislature
that the
did
condition to a warrantless
requirement
triggering
be the
samp
in order to obtain a blood
and nonconsensual search
intend to
the consti
legislature
Neither did the
violate
le.2
section,
1922(8).
reviewing
this
1 Pa.C.S.
tution. See
§
furthering a
legislative plan
is
to look at the
necessary
it
result,
an
obtaining
important
interest
governmental
individuals to a
right
private
reduction of the
despite the
I
and seizure.
believe
probable
cause search
warranted
and the rationale for
legislative plan
clearly apparent
plan
necessary.3
such a
is reasonable
find
the search was
While the Commonwealth would have us
2.
test,
willing
appellant gave
I am
as
actual consent to
consensual
adopt
consent,
majority’s
court that the
if
view and that
the trial
cause,
probable
lack of
and unconstitutional because of
uninformed
Monahan,
623,
Pa.Super.
nullity.
549
Commonwealth v.
378
was a
(1988).
A.2d 231
not testimonial
in nature and
Evidence such as blood tests are
amendment,
consequently
not the
fall within the ambit of the fourth
significance
warnings
Thus the Miranda
have no
as
fifth amendment.
test,
implied by
blood
or the coerciveness
to the voluntariness of the
Anderl,
failing
Also see Commonwealth v.
329
to warn a driver.
Also,
69,
results).
(1984) (breathalyzer
Pa.Super.
no
All of the reasons enunciated in as to the right Skinner to effectuate in- government regulations to control an strumentality prospect great danger which contains the sanctions, and harm to the public, by both deterrence and are here. The applicable United States Court reviewed and documented the necessity impose special railroads, treatment on due to the employees numbers and kinds of accidents are engendered employ- which when ees are under the influence of drugs alcohol. That documentation is no less relevant and applicable opera- vehicles, tors of motor whether be they private vehicles *28 case, such as in large the automobile this or buses carrying of or people, carrying array numbers trucks an enormous of toxic, products, extremely some of which are lethal and capable damaging large communities, of areas and entire heavy transports carrying bridge beams and heavy equip- ment, which travel the hills of Pennsylvania capable and are large death and destruction over areas if properly potential controlled. The for harm on the highways of Pennsylvania, which is one of the most extensive highway in systems tunnels, the world and one which involves roads, bridges, ice, mountain passages, fog, narrow snow conditions, is rainy necessary regulation go so as to death, question. appears potential without It the de- great public struction and harm is far by exceeded the vehicle traffic on the Pennsylvania highways than is the case with the railroad system unques- this state. It is tionably necessary people, to assure that who are incompe- drug who, tent to drive because of and alcohol by use and (c) explicit, When the words of the statute are not the intention of Assembly may by considering, among the General other matters: be ascertained (1) necessity The occasion and for the statute. (2) The circumstances under which it was enacted. (3) The mischief to be remedied. (4) (5) object The to be attained. law, any, including upon The former if other statutes the subjects. same or similar (6) (7) consequences particular interpretation. The of a contemporaneous legislative history. The (8) Legislative interpretations and administrative of such statute. use, dangerousness increase the illegal dramatically their drive, regulat- are vehicle which they and lethalness the necessity the any about question ed. There cannot be deter and sanction adequate provisions prevent, to statutory defy this to drive and then privilege those who abuse people regulations. the to has refused which the balancing majority
Thus a test as the individual if related concerns of apply, privacy in this interest compared general governmental with the law, mandates, narrow very in a clearly area of the governmen- an which favors way, application restricted before, tests As intrusion tal we have said interest. drugs has been considered to the use of alcohol or relating Court and both United States minimal statutory The scheme which of this Commonwealth. Courts an assent to drive privilege driving implied equates the not an unreason- without the use of alcohol is legally and scheme scheme also a measured statutory able one. degree necessary is limited to the which the intrusion in protecting provide order the maximum effectiveness into intruding public minimally while at the same time private interest. scheme, legisla- it is evident Reviewing statutory *29 law, person a implied ture intended that under the consent on public a license and drives the who obtains driver’s a search and gives right his to warranted highways up blood, samples, or breath under 75 Pa.C.S. seizure of urine if, arrest, 1547(a), prior exists and an probable to cause § drugs or driver is under the influence of officer believes the conditions, blood, a of breath sample alcohol. Under those a and without or urine could be taken without warrant Quarles, supra. See This has inter- consent. section been above, mean, cause preted probable to as discussed that to a is under the influence. person must exist believe However, person this to those cases when a applies only or resulting no in injury is on and accident highway the minimal thereby death establishes a is issue. law go to further. intrusion where the need is established However, “implied the provision consent” of the Motor Code, 1547(a)(2), Vehicle 75 Pa.C.S. the legislature recog- § nized when person injured that a is to the degree needing medical attention or a death occurs as a result of an accident, vehicular prevented ultimate condition to or be exists governmental deterred and this as a requires, inter- concern, est and public right go further and man- dates testing both for the purpose of deterrence and for the purpose of sanctions.
The greater danger and greater having harm been real- ized in actuality, implied goes consent law further than (a)(1) subsection requirement eliminates the of probable cause. A further reason for is doing so easily evident. If a is party injured in the accident and before the or police can perhaps should further in go evaluating party’s condi- cause, tion to establish probable he may have been trans- ported to hospital By treatment. the time the police opportunity obtain an with person deal to ascertain probable exists, whether cause for testing the basis for ascertainment of probable dissipated. cause have If may for medical reasons the was party totally beyond contact police their investigation conduct of when there was serious injury were not able observe the individual or to smell the odors prior of alcohol to the time the dissipated alcohol from person’s system, then person escape would the review that other any person, might who have been under the influence of drugs alcohol, subjected to by implied consent laws. There is no better example the above the companion than case Kohl, Pa.Super. decided, which the majority also under the here, it reasoning propounds on the unconstitutionality There, 1547(a)(2). 75 Pa.C.S. in an early morning § acci- dent, appellant/driver was rendered unconscious and his passengers two were killed. He hospitalized did not regain consciousness until the following day. After *30 investigating accident, the scene of the police went to the hospital requested and a test, blood alcohol which estab- A motion to of .15 cent. per alcohol content lished a blood result, a amend- on the basis of fourth this test suppress conviction, the the reversing denied. right, ment was to for it the Commonwealth impossible makes majority behavior, who, through knowing illegal his party a pursue destruction, his simply because has death and produced probable finding permit condition does medical to test. cause above, obtaining intrusion in terms stated the
As has been blood, purpose test urine or breath for in other cases to be minimal. in determined Skinner is deterrence of uncontrolled to achieved goal be fact, by assuring that after incompetent drivers when or accountability injury no from escape there will be accident in which the abuser death occurs in an involved. greater is than the governmental interest much
This This resulting to the individual. is minimal intrusion neither a warrant for special necessity situation which can the balance probable justified arrest nor cause be when governmental pri interest and the public between are killed persons interest are When more weighed. vate in each than are killed most of public highways year on our has and the country participated only which this wars on weapon carnage highways effective reduce the ingested screening drugs those who have by persons driving have serious alcohol while or who been involved influence, right of the accidents while under the then the probable being without cause shown individual be tested public the tests is far less than need have performed.4
I
judgment
affirm the
sentence.
would
BROSKY, J., joins.
Pa.Super.
Leninsky,
4. governmental preventing and control- the role of interest discusses “ irresponsible ‘The car- ling caused drivers. the extensive harm no nage is well documented and needs caused drunk drivers Neville, 553, 558, South Dakota v. detailed recitation here.’ *31 38
KELLY, dissenting: Judge, I respectfully dissent. I would affirm judgment sen- imposed appellant’s tence conviction of drunk I driving. not would address the constitutionality of 42 Pa.C.S.A. 1547(a)(2), Ias find appellant’s express consent was § valid, voluntary and and so would find recourse statutory to unnecessary consent to implied uphold the search (by blood test) challenged Nonetheless, here. as the majority base disposition their appeal this on that I ground, shall commence dissent my by explaining my views on im- issue, plied consent before to proceeding explain, length, at I with why disagree on the majority critical issue of appellant’s whether express consent was voluntary and valid.
I. 154-7(c) 75 Constitutionality Pa.C.S.A. § enacted, implied As the current consent statute leaves discretion to the in the to deter- unfettered mine whether officer field
or
implied
invoke
consent
request
that a conscious driver submit to a blood test or direct that
performed
test be
on an unconscious driver. 75 Pa.C.
1547(a)(2).
S.A.
every
While
driver who falls within the
§
triggering language of the statute
consent,
is deemed to
there is no requirement that every driver deemed to consent
Rather,
be tested.
the officer in
pick
the field may
choose which
test
on an
ad
entirely
hoc basis. The
absence of sufficient restrictions on the officer’s discretion
as to which conscious drivers are to
requested
be
to submit
test,
to a blood
or which unconscious drivers are to be
test,
subjected
a blood
the implied consent provi-
renders
unconstitutional,
sion
if a mandatory
even
“request
sub-
919,
916,
(1983).
103 S.ct.
74
slaughter
L.Ed.2d 748
‘The
on the
highways of our Nation exceeds the death
toll
all our wars.’ Perez
Cambell,
637, 657,
1704, 1715,
v.
(1971) (Blackmun,
91 S.Ct.
89 pass could to all such drivers applicable mit” provision — U.S. -, Wells, Florida v. muster. constitutional Cf. 43473); (1990) (1990 1 WL 109 L.Ed.2d 1391, L.Ed.2d Prouse, 440 v. S.Ct. Delaware Tarbert, 517 Pa. v. (1979); Commonwealth Pa. Swanger, Commonwealth (1987); A.2d 1035 Leninsky, (1973); 307 A.2d Hence, agree I that the Pa.Super. *32 is unconstitutional. current statute if the ratio- to determine I find it here necessary do not evi- evanescent preserve highly need” to “special nale of train the of a serious content at time dence of blood alcohol testing warrantless, of accident via suspicionless blood regulatory pur- prosecution, train for non-criminal crews Assn., Labor Railway Executive 489 Skinner in poses L.Ed.2d 639 could be 602, 109 S.Ct. warrantless, tests of suspicionless blood permit extended to in accidents for criminal drivers involved serious automobile Nonetheless, the response ma- purposes. prosecution I I be inclined to prohibition, note that would jority’s broad rationale in Skinner Tamilia that the agree Judge with cases, provided consent implied should extended to cover be (deemed discretion, persons as the to which have officer’s consented) tested, regulated in a rational and would be manner. systematic Constitutional Grounds
II. State uncon- same reason that I would find statute For the Amendment, I would likewise under the Fourth stitutional I,Art. sec. 8. I find under Pa. Const. it unconstitutional however, majority’s suggestion with the agree, cannot heightened of 1547(a)(2) because is invalid Pa.C.S.A. § I,Art. sec. 8 which is provided under Pa. Const. protection Amendment. under the Fourth provided Pa.Super. Shaeffer, (1987)(allocatur explained author granted), A.2d this of majority from dissenting a similar conclusion imposed broader en that our state constitution panel banc Amendment: restrictions than the Fourth
A.
notes,
As the majority
Pennsylvania
proscription
against unreasonable searches and seizures antedates the
provision.
federal
Majority Opinion, supra, 370 Pa.Su-
per.
192-194,
Indeed,
Clearly, I, Pa. Art. Const. sec. 8 has identity and vitality separate and distinct from that of the Fourth Amend- ment; it remains therefore emphatically province duty of the Pennsylvania judiciary declare its scope and limitations. See DeJohn, supra, 486 1289; Pa. at Beck, at Pennsylvania
41 Review—1982, Supreme Temple Quarterly Court Law (1983); Roberts, 708-10 The Supreme Court of Action, Pennsylvania; Constitutional Government (1981); Temple Quarterly Law see also Bren- nen, The Bill Rights the States: The revival of State Constitutions as Guardians Individual Rights, (1986); Galie, N.Y.U.L.Rev. Supreme Other Courts: Judicial Activism State Among Courts, 33 Syracuse L.Rev. 731 However, even proponents recognize of “new federalism” independent case for an role for state courts not be read as a case for unthinking “should activism. federal, No judge, state or is knight errant whose only good. Hence, concern is to do the state judge, when presented with the invitation develop body state law, constitutional should pause to consider some of the dangers along Howard, the way.” State Courts and Constitutional Rights Court, Day Burger (1976) (also 62 Va.L.Rev. 940-41 coining the phrase “new-federalism” to describe the use of state sovereignty to insulate state constitution protections broader than the federal protections constitutional from review in the fed courts); eral Berger, New Theories Interpreta cf tion: The Flight Constitution, Activists' from (Winter Ohio 1986) St.L.J. (analyzing and criticizing the approaches). activist
As
recognizes,
the majority
we are “expected to deal
with a
carefully
Supreme Court opinion
explain
and to
forthrightly why
find
required to reason
[we
ourselves]
differently.” Majority Opinion,
supra,
Pa.Super. at
189-190,
536 A.2d at
quoting Commonwealth v.
DeJohn,
486 Pa.
supra,
A.2d 921
our
explained,
Court
“[w]hile
we can interpret our own constitution to afford defen-
greater
dants
protections than the federal constitution
Sell,
see e.g.,
does,
Commonwealth v.
63-64,
Pa.
(1983)
470 A.2d
(collecting cases),
there should
be a compelling
reason to do so.”
B. Pennsylvanians undoubtedly right have to adopt a state constitution which provides greater limitations on the warrantless use of electronic participant monitoring by law enforcement personnel than the federal constitu- provides. tion question case, in the however, instant is not whether Pennsylvanians may, but whether we have already done so. I,
The mere fact that Pa. Const. Art. sec. 8 antedates the Fourth Amendment provide does not a reason to construe it differently than the Fourth Amendment. Both were directed toward eliminating the same evils—general war- rants and writs of assistance. Hart, See Wakely (1814); Binn. 317-18 Rubin, Commonwealth v. su- pra, see also V The Founder’s Pa.Super 319-20; at Constitution 219-44 (tracing the origins of the Amendment); Fourth Galloway, Fourth Amendment Ban on General Seizures, Searches and 10 Search and Seizure L.Rep. (1983); Marke, 141-48 “The writs of Assistance Case and the Fourth Amendment,” in Essays in Legal History in Honor Felix Frankfurter, at (Forkosch 351-72 1966); White, ed. Commentaries on the Constitution Pennsylvania, (Philadel- at 157-59 1907). phia
Moreover, there are no significant textual differences provide which would a reason for differing construction of the clauses. Commonwealth v. Gray, supra, Pa. 485-86, 926; 503 A.2d at see also Commonwealth v. Johnston, 454, 472, 515 Pa. (1987)(Hutch- inson, J., concurring); Platou, 455 Pa.
43
denied
cert.
11,
29,
34 n. 11
258, 266 n.
(1974);
3183,
That our federal authority on to conduct government’s the restrictions required the minimally by and seizures than searches Here, however, unquestioned. Fourth Amendment is text of constitu- provided has no basis in the our majority tion, history application years of its for over before Ohio, Mapp since, history or in its which would justify I, sec. 8 expansive construction Pa. Const. Art. Indeed, on majority’s them here. decision employed announced, explained. rather than point this rationale clearly compelling In absence defined and I, 8,1 of Pa. Const. Art. sec. upon history based text construing to scrupulously provi- will continue avoid imposed than provide greater sion to restrictions especially regard Amendment. I will do so with Fourth evidence, as the suppression otherwise admissible imposed upon rule our con- exclusionary settled state (which repeatedly, expressly, had jurisprudence stitutional rejected exclusionary unequivocally rule) by the mandate Amendment, the Fourth Fourteenth and the federal
Amendment constitution’s Supremacy I no state Clause. find textual or basis historical based constitutionally exclusionary Pennsylvania, rule I will such an apply rule no than exclusionary further our commands. See Common expressly Court *36 v. Shaeffer, wealth Pa.Super. 179, 267-69, 370 235-40 & 536 364, J., (1987) A.2d 382-85 & 398-99 (Kelly, concurring and (allocatur granted); see also Commonwealth v. dissenting) Williams, 493, 498, Pa.Super. 1281, 390 568 A.2d 1285-87 (1990); Commonwealth v. Haggarty, 67, 388 Pa.Super. 73-76, 1269, (1989) J., 564 A.2d 1272-73 (Kelly, concurring); Slaton, v. Commonwealth 301, 343, 383 Pa.Super. 556 A.2d 1343, (1989) J., concurring 1363-64 (Kelly, dissenting); Melson, v. Commonwealth 139, 150, Pa.Super. 383 836, (1989) J., 841 (Kelly, dissenting).
III. Express Consent
The
find
majority
that appellant’s voluntary consent
test
They
blood
was invalid.
do not find her consent
coerced,
invalid because she was
or even because she was
Rather,
deceived.
they find her
invalid
consent
because she
not put
possible
“was
on notice of the
criminal ramifications
Opinion,
of the blood test.” Majority
supra,
395
Pa.Superi
27,
or
atCt.
In Commonwealth v.
supra,
this
author exam-
consent,
ined the
length,
relevant
law of
as follows:
Early
involving
cases
consent
to search contained lan
guage
suggested
which
that consent must
knowing
be
i.e.
intelligent,
express
made with full and
knowledge
of the right
Bumper
See
to refuse consent.
v. North
Carolina,
543,
1788,
391 U.S.
88 S.Ct.
45 party giving not establish need prosecution could be refused. See United that consent consent knew Watson, 423 U.S. 820, 46 L.Ed.2d 411, 96 States v. S.Ct. Matlock, 415 U.S. 164, States United 94 (1976); 598 (1974). 242 988, L.Ed.2d S.Ct. that consent provide also construed cases were
Early in- deceit, stealth, misrepresentation obtained v. Wright, 81, Commonwealth valid. See 411 Pa. States, 255 U.S. Amos v. United citing (1963), A.2d 709 v. United Gouled (1921), 266, L.Ed. 654 S.Ct. States, L.Ed. 647 41 S.Ct. 255 U.S. States, v. United
Weeks
Wright
dictum
was followed
L.Ed. 652
in the more recent cases
this Court
Poteete,
(1980) and
Subsequent
upheld
has
consensual
Supreme
repeatedly
States
Court
to the
despite deception
identity
as
as
searches
valid
conducting
purpose
person
and/or
Caceres,
v.
See United States
741,
440
“search.”
U.S.
99
United States v.
1465,
(1979);
S.Ct.
Likewise,
cases of our
dem
Supreme
more recent
Court
dictum
(that
Wright
onstrate that
the broad
consent
invalid)
does not
state
acquired by deception
accurately
currently
of consent as it is
understood
Penn
law
Morgan,
In
517 Pa.
sylvania.
(1987),
Supreme
A.2d 1054
our
Court reversed the deci
of a
of this
had held that a
panel
sion
divided
Court which
for
officer
suspect’s
police
(by stating
consent
to enter
in”)
rendered
decep
“come on
invalid
the officer’s
identity (by answering
tion as to his
“Joe” to the sus
Commonwealth v.
there”).
In
pect’s question “who’s
Albrecht, 510 Pa.
604, 603,
(1986),
cert.
This may consent be valid recognized that and has Wright, in moti- and/or identity as to an officer’s deception despite relinquishment consensual obtaining suspect’s in vation or statements, contraband to respect privacy with or evidence. inculpatory facts other Brown, in decision our Court’s Subsequent to Weimer, 262 in stated Commonwealth this Court (1978), that, “stealth and 396 A.2d Pa.Super. in the arsenal of the weapons necessary are strategy to in that consent found police officer.” We Weimer despite hunting club was not invalid private enter a reasons and their deception as to their identities officer’s Poteete, supra, seeking entry. for Commonwealth Brown, held that consent citing Wright this but Court officer suspect’s home was invalid when to enter think that the letting suspect suspect by deceived the stolen car follow-up suspect’s on the officer was there his there to confirm actually the officer was report, when prior on a visit lawfully observed suspicion property property. stolen recently fact However, v. Morri months later two (1980), cert. denied son, Pa.Super. Pennsylvania, Morrison v. sub nom. panel of this an en banc 66 L.Ed.2d
S.Ct. to enter a barn consent held that landowner’s Court suspected were marijuana large quantities which the officer’s rendered invalid by stored was not have been and his reason identity his deception as both panel, The en banc without wanting to see the barn. Poteete, distinguished Wright expressly citing Brown precedent of federal decided on the basis having as been modified. substantially subsequently had been which A.2d at 1381.
48 Pa.Super. 586, Schaszberger, v. Commonwealth
In (1981), enter was deemed consent to valid A.2d as to by deception fact that it was obtained despite the in i.e. seeking entry, and for identity officers’ reason the safe execution of a to facilitate the and effective order Ginter, Commonwealth In search warrant. lawful (1981), to enter 432 A.2d consent Pa.Super. to despite deception deemed valid the officers’ as was i.e. seeking entry, reason for their identities their Common- In violations. suspicions liquor confirm law Markman, wealth v. Pa.Super. unequivocally,
(1983), a
of this Court stated
panel
“[con-
procured by
when
may
voluntary
sent
deemed
even
be
misrepresents
who
both his
identity
officer
As
previously,
the search.”
noted
purpose
making
for
Morgan,
this Court’s decision in
which
Morrison,
Schaszberger,
Ginter
and instead
ignored
Poteete,
our
relied on
reversed
Court
Carelli,
Pa.Super.
in
Finally,
a review of a
following
majority
distinct
Carelli based
First,
attempts
distinguish
majority
case
statutory duty
in this
of a
on
upon
presence
state
of their
purpose
inspec-
of the officers to
part
above, I find that
the statute re-
explained
tions. As
than
statement of the
of authorized
type
no more
quires
inspection
requests
the officer intends or
administrative
not required
Because the officer is
consent to conduct.
seeking
inspec-
to disclose the reasons
statute
in that
tion,
distinguishable
respect.
case
this
Second,
this case
attempts
distinguish
majority
Carel-
cited
upon their conclusion that
cases
based
li, “were
involving
agents
cases
undercover
primarily
tactics;
fact situations
suited
e.g.
uniquely
to such police
*40
illegal
dealings
illegal
opera-
narcotics
and
gambling
supra,
Majority Opinion,
tions.”
Pa.Super.
at
Ginter,
The problem for this is permissi- Court to determine the police ble extent of in power light of these United States Supreme Court decisions. Lewis (involving sales marijuana (in- federal agent), narcotics Hoffa volving planting government aof informer in defen- dant’s hotel room and Lo- conversations), to overhear pez (involving an attempted bribe an Internal Reve- agent) nue clearly do not police to be Require completely open and truthful identity as to their and purpose dealing suspects. when with recognize They that undercover work an essential in weapon arsenal. this case the ‘undercover’ work was toas Petrovich’s identity policeman as but rather as to his in motives offering to sell the gun. appears It to us that there is no real difference between this deception and those found permissible Lewis, in Hoffa Lopez. and added). Thus, A.2d 881-82. (Emphasis this case is Albrecht,
not distinguishable Brown or Carelli from based the fact upon that officers involved here were not working undercover, nor is this distinguishable case upon type based of crime under investigation. Third and finally, majority suggest that because Wright overruled, has never been expressly Poteete and not Carelli correctly states the law respect with effect of deception upon in Pennsylvania. consent As however, Carelli, decided our Wright
explained on solely based federal law which was Supreme Court Moreover, modified. subse- subsequently substantially Court, of our while not overrul- quent decisions recog- expressly have nonetheless ing expressly, Wright in the law. See Commonwealth v. change nized this Albrecht, supra; supra; Commonwealth Morgan, Thus, I Brown, remain of the supra. longer correctly no state Poteete opinion Wright law, properly were distin- controlling they guished Morrison Carelli. course, given remains invalid if it is re- consent
Of
authority.
claim of
Lo-Ji
sponse to a false or invalid
See
Sales,
York, 442 U.S.
Inc. v. New
*41
(1979);
Bumper
L.Ed.2d 920
v. North Carolina
U.S.
(1968);
1788,
untary because not “knowingly and intelligent- ” given. The ly majority reaches that conclusion based upon its that, “appellant determination had no reason to believe investigation was any different from a routine investigation,” accident and “appellant put was not on notice possible criminal ramifications” of her consent. Opinion, Neither, Majority supra, how- 21. ever, had Albrecht, the defendants in Morgan, Brown, Carelli, Morrison, Ginter, Schaszberger, or been Weimer “put on possible notice criminal ramifications” of search; their yet, consent to consent was voluntary deemed and valid in each those cases.
Here, there no deception. Appellant coercion and no voluntarily test, consented to take the voluntarily submitted to test. There no semblance official coercion express implied; I no consequently, grounds see *42 to deem the consent invalid. There is no requirement that consent to search be “knowing and as intelligent” well as “voluntary.” Watson, United v. See States supra; United Matlock, v. supra; Bustamonte, States Schneckloth v. supra.
IV. Waivers “Intelligent” fact, In point of the majority has improperly injected Fifth “knowing intelligent” Amendment and waiver analy- sis into a Fourth Amendment “voluntary” consent case. Moreover, so, in doing they fail to the existing observe limitations on that analysis waiver and on generally, intelligent component waiver particularly. deemed to Miranda warnings only are prophylactic rights Amendment when to Fifth required protect
be
interrogation
coercive
subjected
presumptively
suspect
Bruder, v.
Pennsylvania
See
custody.
while
Common
(1988);
102 L.Ed.2d
Com
(1988);
Gonzalez,
1.
I
follows:
exclusionary
may
rule
extent there
be a state
Whether and to what
Pennsylvania
un-
Pennsylvania arising
Constitution is
from the
Montgomery,
See Commonwealth v.
Pennsylvania.
certain in
142-43,
(1986);
Commonwealth v.
Pa.
179, 265-71,
(1988)
Shaeffer,
Pa.Super.
A.2d
398-400
Morgan,
J.,
In dissenting.
concurring
(Kelly,
supra,
Supreme Court noted:
our
remedy
appropriate
[E]xclusion/suppression
of evidence is not an
Pennsylvania
Procedure
every
Rules of Criminal
violation of
only
concerning
It is
where the violation
searches and seizures.
fundamental,
concerns,
implicates
is conducted
constitutional
also
*43
Moreover,
in applying
“knowing
and intelligent”
analysis,
waiver
the majority
given
have
the “intelligent”
component
waiver
broader construction that
is permissible
is even true Fifth Amendment/Miranda cases. Conceded-
ly,
majority applies
“intelligent
an
choice” approach
Miranda waivers
applied
which had been
to
involving
cases
in this Commonwealth is varied forms
Supreme
since our
Collins,
Commonwealth v.
Court’s decision in
114,
436 Pa.
(1969).
be said here. *44 54 ap choice” “intelligent that can no doubt
There
be
was
which
waivers
Fifth Amendment/Mrcmcia
to
proach
rested exclu
Supreme
our
Court
forms
varied
applied
law
than state
constitutional
rather
sively
on
federal
Court, applying
Miranda,
Supreme
our
to
Prior
grounds.
Miranda
prophylactic
held that no
law, uniformly
state
confessions
and that even
required,
warnings were
-type
unless the
admissible
deception were
artifice or
gained by
to induce
likely
of a type
was
deception employed
artifice
Graham,
v.
e.g.
See
Commonwealth
a
confession.
false
v.
John
Commonwealth
(1962);
155,
A.2d 727
Pa.
182
408
v.
Commonwealth
(1953);
son, 372 Pa.
266,
A. PENNSYL VANIA Collins, of our supra, plurality v. In ap- choice” “intelligent adopted first Court stating: proach, failing sup- erred in the court urges
Appellant
statement,
he claims was obtained
oral
which
his
press
Arizona, 86 S.Ct.
of Miranda
violation
(1966). The Com-
694,
In 458 (then Nix) (1974), Nix Justice stated Chief Justice opinion: another plurality if argues appellant that even had a Commonwealth oral and
right line-up, to counsel at the his written right. Appel- that he waived that declarations establish asserting lant counters that such waiver was made investigation of crime knowledge without the under knowing intelligent. therefore not to challenges This Court has dealt with similar waivers of Miranda to counsel under on several occasions. right the McKinney, Commonwealth v. 10, See, 453 Pa. v. McIntyre, Commonwealth (1973); 451 Pa. Swint, Commonwealth v. (1973);
A.2d 832
Pa.
Boykin,
Commonwealth v.
(1972);
450 Pa.
appears,
added).
here).
(Emphasis
considered
than the one
issue
Dixon, 475 Pa.
17,
Appellant’s primary her constitutional intelligently’ waive ‘knowingly lawyer present a remain silent and have rights to it therefore and that was police interrogation, during confes- her oral request suppress refuse her error to record, agree. must of this we On the basis sion. Richman, held that this Court In sus- rights requires waiver Miranda valid nature general awareness have an pect The ratio- investigation. rise to the giving transaction such only was that it is when holding this nale of that he can be said suspect possessed by knowledge *46 right the consequences yielding to understand of forego lawyer a counsel. thing ‘It is far different counsel than to waive a traffic offense is involved where It is clear from murder is at stake.’ degree first where not have Richman, however, suspect need that of the criminal offense of the ‘technicalities’ knowledge he of involved; rather, necessary only it is that be aware Richman Neither does the ‘transaction’ involved. there is, warning’; that a ‘fifth Miranda holding establish interrogating that requirement prophylactic is no to the sus- provide affirmatively information officers Where, how- investigation. under as to the crime pect such ever, has not been furnished with the defendant concerning the valid- challenge and a pre-trial information the Common- ground, is made on this of a confession ity prove by preponderance wealth must a the evidence of that the knew the occasion the interro- defendant of for This burden gation. may sometimes be satisfied establishment attending circumstances the interro- of gation, prior suspect, such as the statements of the that hard the crimi- interrogation upon fact follows nal episode and there is no lending circumstance ambi- guity to the direction and purpose the questioning. (citations omitted; added). emphasis A.2d at Commonwealth v. Travaglia, 502 Pa. 467 A.2d Zappala, speaking Justice for majority of the Court stated: Arizona,
Miranda v. (1966) L.Ed.2d 694 does require in addition to the rights various enumerated a suspect provided must be information as to the crime under investigation. This that a suspect must have ‘an held, however, Court has awareness general nature the transaction rise to giving investigation,’ in order to make an Com- intelligent and understanding rights. waiver of his Dixon, monwealth v. 17, 22, 475 Pa. Richman, See also Commonwealth v.
(1977).
458 Pa.
167, 320
It was stated in Dixon A.2d 351
where ‘the defendant has not been furnished with such
information
as
him
to make
aware of the transaction
[so
and a pre-trial challenge concerning the validity
involved]
the Common-
of a confession
ground,
is made on this
prove
wealth must
aby preponderance
the evidence
that the
knew the occasion
the interro-
defendant
for
gation.’
Finally, Zappa- Justice la, again speaking majority Court, in rejecting a Miranda claim that warnings should have been re- peated when the police questioned the suspect regarding a second burglary, noted: *47 however,
It would appear, that the approach suggested would greatly expand the of rule the case on which it is Dixon, 475 Pa. Commonwealth
premised, a confession as the (1977). There invalidated we intelli- knowingly and rights of a product waiver Dixon arrested for failure abide given. gently conviction, summary for a but imposed restitution order a son. the ambi- the death of her Given questioned about situation, held that the Commonwealth of the we guity she had sufficient ‘awareness proven had not to the nature of the giving transaction rise general Richman, citing investigation,’ Dixon, did not hold in A.2d 351 We Pa. in- held, suspect that a must be and we have never investigation. crime under every each and formed of held that consistently we have contrary, On the Commonwealth, its burden meeting proving in establish the knowing intelligent, may waiver was and the lack interrogation attending circumstances direction and questioning’s as to ambiguity purpose. added). (Emphasis A.2d at 519 n. 1. “intelligent ap- of the choice” underlying premise to Miranda waivers is that a waiver not be may
proach
police
in a
sense if the
“intelligent”
constitutional
deemed
which
material-
might
withheld information
knowingly
have
choice to
intelligence
on
of the
ly impact
the wisdom
self-incrimination
right against compulsory
waive
more
sense.
I note that our
Court’s
tactical
appli-
trend
from strict
away
recent cases reflect a distinct
in-
substituting
intelligent
approach,
of the
choice
cation
that, in
the circumstances
requirement
stead a lesser
of “the
case,
informed
suspect
adequately
individual
be
investigation,”
or the transaction under
general nature
criminal
not “put
possible
be
on notice
suspect
Compare
Travaglia,
ramifications.”
Opinion, supra,
supra,
Majority
B. UNITED SUPREME STATES COURT CASES premise The choice” underlying “intelligent ap- Miranda waivers proach to has been traced to the United Illinois, Escobedo v. Court’s decision in States general- See L.Ed.2d 977 Miranda, From Escobedo to ly passim Medalie, (Inst. Pro.1966). Crim.L. Professor D. has Joseph & Grano co- of Escobedo gently, critically, impact albeit summarized the on the law of confessions as follows:
A. Police Interrogation Intelligent Choice Although Escobedo v. Illinois has little as a vitality today case, Amendment its reasoning, Sixth which illustrates the first thinking, strand of modern confessions still exerts influence. After confronted Escobedo an him accomplice shooting, with who accused of the fatal he, responded Escobedo that the accomplice, not had fired the shots. The Supreme sympathetically Court ob- served that as a layman undoubtedly Escobedo unaware that admission complicity his was as dam- aging as an admission that he had shots. fired fatal The Court stated that Escobedo needed counsel’s legal advice, aid and what because resulted the inter- during could rogation the later trial. Absent the right affect advice, to counsel’s the trial would be ‘no more than an ’ appeal interrogation, with conviction virtually from assured by suspect’s confession. appreciate
We can this reasoning only how remarkable by focusing on the evils the court clearly identified as primary suspect evil is the mak- warranting relief. an ing decision to con- unintelligent uninformed decision, assure To an and intelligent fess. informed one comports interests, with the suspect’s best counsel should be present provide aid and A advice. second is the police obtaining evil evidence from suspect help that will assure his conviction. The sus- will not have much pect chance mounting an effec- is, tive at trial—that an winning acquittal— defense he reason, confesses, articulated, some if this is even suspect undesirable when the is guilty. *49 legitimate, If these concerns are the tactics the authors advocate should no in place Indeed, have our law. one if takes Escobedo’s reasoning seriously, police all interro- gation prohibited should be until has defendant had an to opportunity consult with a Under lawyer. vision, Escobedo’s constitutional we cannot rest comfort- ably system permits with a that legal of availability assistance to turn on the suspect’s hurried to response a less than Indeed, enthusiastic warning. pro- legal curement of advice must depend system in such a more on chance than on a reasoned exercise of judgment. course, as the know, Of authors and others provision of counsel to all defendants before interrogation facil- would intelligent itate choice only by eliminating the virtually confessions, possibility for the only advice a competent lawyer typically give, will particularly if the is suspect guilty, This, is not to a however, make statement. is the necessary price taking Escobedo seriously.
Grano, Selling the to Truth, Idea Tell the 84 Mich.L.Rev. (1986) (footnotes omitted, 666-67 added), emphasis re- Inbau, Reed, viewing & Buckley, Criminal Interrogations (3rd Ed.1986). . Confessions Kamisar, however, Professor Yale had force- provided a ful justification of the very results Professor Grano criti- cized, prior the Supreme Court’s decision Miranda:
I do not claim that the state has an obligation prevent suspect from incriminating himself. I do contend that it must ensure that the suspect not, is aware he need to, and cannot be made incriminate himself. I do not should, can, claim that the state or even that it eliminate which ‘disadvan- personal ‘inequalities’ all the subtle more than police interrogation subjects some tage’ is reasonably I that so as it others. do contend far that the choice can and should ensure the state possible poor speak and the ignorant weak and the as that their and as speak not to is as informed free endowed brethren. fortunately more !}{ 5¡C % S& Sj« [*] mood, ‘pleading guilty’ there are who feel Suspects plead do reasons most defendants many for some intentionally relin- Suspects there are who would guilty. from the some favor rights hoped-for their quish suspects I such deny I this. do deny state. do not need a lawyer. do not who, in the effect, pleading guilty
Surely man no less than one who arrives lawyer needs a gatehouse surviving perilous only at the same decision after Both needs are sub- that structure. through journey stantial: *50 than defendant to position
An is in a better attorney Moreover, the agreement. any plea and discuss evaluate sentencing inquire to about the court’s attorney will want any proposi- assess the and thus better value practice Under these by prosecuting attorney. tion made circumstances, legal sympathetic a defendant will have a in arriving him all relevant factors expert helping analyze plead to guilty. at the ultimáte conclusion whether who can whether a seriously question One defendant to waive counsel. should ever be admitted pleads guilty [*] [*] [*] jfc [*] [*] carry from and Escobedo far. Logical radiations Massiah until all may spent Their not be unless and force counsel is barred. questioning in the absence of Kamisar, and Mansions of “Equal the Gatehouses Justice Procedure,” in Criminal Justice in Our American Criminal 62 10, (Howard
Time 1965) (footnote omitted, at & 61 ed. added).2 emphasis made light support broad constructions both and critics of the Escobedo decision,
ers hardly it is surpris construed Miranda to ing our Court Supreme require suspect that the have least a general awareness matter of the subject interrogation be conducted before Nonetheless, waiving his Fifth Amendment rights. wheth sign misread, er posts were or the United States Su preme simply following Court decided that it was the wrong fact path,3 the remains that recent United Supreme States Court cases indicate that clearly “intelligent choice” is approach the correct path analyzing follow Miranda waivers under law. constitutional federal
Indeed,
recent United States
Court decisions
involving
Fifth Amendment generally and Miranda
have
and in
waiversparticularly
significantly refined
some
cases altered
our
entirely
understanding of
nature
operation of the federal constitutional proscription against
compulsory self-incrimination.4
particular
significance
Of
”
2. The "Massiah case referred to
Professor
Kamisar Massiah v.
States,
201,
1199,
(1964).
United
377 U.S.
84 S.Ct.
L.Ed.2d
Frey,
Interrogation
Wrong
Taken,
3.
Modern Police
Law: The
Road
Cf.
42 U.Pitt.L.Rev. 731-36
U.S. -,
generally
4.
Dept.
Bouknight,
See
Balt.
Soc. Serv. v.
900,
(1990) (5th
preclude
S.Ct.
In Moran v. 106 S.Ct. Supreme L.Ed.2d 410 the United States ex- Court that a Miranda waiver pressly rejected proposition “knowing intelligent” could not be deemed when the police prevented contacting had counsel from suspect, and had told counsel falsely suspect that the would not be questioned. explained: Court
... Miranda holds that defendant waive effec- may ‘[t]he rights conveyed warnings tuation’ in the ‘provided the waiver is made voluntarily, knowingly intelligent- ly-’
... the Court of Appeals believe that the ‘[deliberate reckless’ police, conduct of the their particular failure call, to inform respondent of the telephone fatally under- mined the validity proper otherwise waiver. We find this conclusion as logic untenable a matter both and precedent.
Events outside occurring presence suspect and entirely unknown to him can surely have no bearing on the capacity comprehend and'knowingly relinquish a constitutional right. analysis Under defendant, of Appeals, Court the same armed with the same information and confronted precisely with the same conduct, Mi- police would have his knowingly waived randa rights had a lawyer telephoned police (1987) (permitting suspect’s L.Ed.2d speak sight wife to to the accused within and earshot of a police “interrogation”). officer did not constitute *52 inquire
station to about his Nothing status. any. our waiver or in decisions our understanding the essential components of a valid requires incongruous waiver so a result. No doubt the additional would information have been to respondent; perhaps might even it useful have his decision to But we have affected confess. never read the Constitution to require that the police supply suspect with a to help flow of information him calibrate his in deciding whether to self-interest speak or stand his rights.
Once it is determined that a suspect’s decision not to
rely
uncoerced,
on his
was
rights
that he at all times
knew he could stand mute and request a
lawyer,
that he was aware
the State’s intention to use his
conviction,
statements to secure a
the analysis is com-
plete and the waiver is valid as a matter
law.
421-23,
L.Ed.2d 920 the United Supreme States Court held suspect’s partial that invocation of Fifth Amendment (i.e. talk, rights that he stating willing but not to a written sign statement) did not require cessation of all questioning. The Court specifically rejected a contention that the partial invocation of Fifth Amendment protections demonstrated such defects suspect’s understanding consequences of the Miranda waiver as to preclude finding partial waiver was made knowingly intelligently. Supreme Court explained: the contention that the distinction drawn reject We also oral and written statements indicates Barrett between incomplete so understanding consequences an right should deem his limited invocation of we This suggestion ig- purposes. for all counsel effective *53 trial finding nores Barrett’s the the testimony—and of the questioned by Supreme court not Connecticut the Miranda respondent fully understood Court—that course, of made clear to warnings. warnings, These officers, any police anything Barrett that talk to you ‘[i]f against you App can and will be used court.’ you say might at 48A. The fact that some find Barrett’s decision for we have never ‘embraced the irrelevant, illogical is that a conse- theory ignorance full defendant’s of vitiates their voluntariness.’ quences his decisions 832-33, 93 L.Ed.2d 479 U.S. at S.Ct. at at 928-29 (footnote omitted, added). emphasis again, Here the fact of, misunderstood, was infor- suspect that unaware might materially mation which have affected the tactical intelligence right wisdom or of his decision to waive his not against compulsory self-incrimination did foreclose a that finding voluntarily, knowingly, waiver was made and intelligently. v. Spring, most Colorado
Finally,
significantly,
A statement is not ‘compelled’ within the meaning Fifth if Amendment an individual ‘voluntarily, knowingly and intelligently’ waives his privilege. constitutional
‡ $ sjc 9j( 3): sfc There also is no doubt that Spring’s waiver of his Fifth Amendment privilege knowingly and intelligently is, made: Spring that understood that he had the right to remain silent and that anything he said could be used as against evidence him. The constitution does not require that a criminal know suspect and understand every possible consequence a waiver Fifth Amendment The privilege. Amendment’s guar- Fifth simpler antee is both and more fundamental: defen- may compelled dant not be to be a witness against any respect. warnings protect Miranda himself privilege ensuring this suspect that he knows may officers, choose not to talk to law enforcement talk only present, with counsel or to discontinue talking *54 at time. any The Miranda warnings ensure that a waiver rights these is knowing intelligent of that requiring suspect be fully advised this con- stitutional privilege, including the critical advice that whatever he chooses to say may be used as evidence him. against
In this case there is no allegation Spring that failed to understand the basic privilege guaranteed the Fifth Amendment. Nor is there any allegation that he misun- consequences derstood the of speaking to freely the law sum, enforcement officials. we think that the trial court was correct in indisputably finding that Spring’s waiver was made knowingly and intelligently within the meaning of Miranda. 573-75,
Spring contended that even if his statements were not in “compelled” sense, a Fifth Amendment they were nonetheless the fruits of police deception in violation of the dictum “any Miranda that evidence that the accused into waiver will ... tricked threatened, cajoled or a voluntarily waive his did not that the defendant show 1629, 16 L.Ed.2d at 384 U.S. at S.Ct. privilege.” claim, the Su added).5 In this (Emphasis rejecting 725. preme Court stated: distinction has assuming Spring’s proposed that
Even This has never Court merit, his conclusion. reject we as lawby held that mere silence officials enforcement ‘trickery’ interrogation matter an subject to the Miranda suspect’s invalidate a waiver to sufficient today. so hold expressly and we decline to rights, are it is difficult to see Once Miranda warnings given, to misunder- suspect official silence could cause how right to right—‘his stand the nature of his constitutional question might to which incriminate any refuse answer ‘Indeed, one who is told him.’ it seems self-evident that inis a curious questions he is free to refuse to answer com- to that his answers were posture complain later does that a valid waiver pelled.’ We have held all require that an individual be informa- informed of ’ his decision or all making tion information ‘useful his decision to ‘might ... ‘[W]e affec[t] confess.’ require never read the Constitution have with a police supply suspect information flow of whether deciding him calibrate his help self-interest Here, rights.’ his the additional speak standby a Miranda the wisdom only could information affect na- waiver, knowing essentially voluntary not its the law Accordingly, ture. enforcement failure *55 the to the matter Spring subject of of officials inform decision to Spring’s could not interrogation affect a constitution- privilege his Amendment in waive Fifth manner. significant ally deception/trickery I the of the issue
5.
note that even in Miranda
focus
voluntary
the
character of
waiver. So
was on whether it vitiated the
warnings
long
deception/trickery
does not relate
the
the
as the
itself,
right
knowing
intelligent aspect
constitutional
the
not
waiver is
effected.
576-77,
479 U.S. at
S.Ct.
Though “intelligent the choice” approach stoutly was defended and extolled in dissenting Justice Marshall’s opin ion, the in joinder only Justice Brennan that dissent demonstrates that the “intelligent approach choice” has been plainly rejected a clear expressly majority is, the body government, which under our system the final expositor the As Constitution. the federal federal Collins, Rickman, premise constitutional which Dix upon on, and Moss are built has Travaglia, collapsed, so too must the precedential of those be authority decisions deemed be collapsed.6 I note Finally, that this Court followed Moran, Barrett, and Spring Commonwealth v. Britch er, supra, A.2d (emphasizing at 507 that “knowing and intelligent” solely refer the suspect’s understanding of Miranda and warnings, suspect’s under standing interests). of his or her tactical
III. COULD TRICKERY INVALIDATE
THE WAIVER?
The “intelligent choice” approach has been plainly reject-
Moreover,
ed.
while
Supreme
Court
left
expressly
question
undecided the
of what effect an
mis-
affirmative
representation
police might
have on
of a
validity
waiver,
Miranda
the Supreme
expressly rejected
Court
suggestion
officer’s arguably deceptive silence
constituted
Colorado v. Spring,
vitiating deception.
waiver
supra,
at 576
n.
I would hold even when a suspect is the presump- tively setting coercive custodial so interrogation, long as the suspect’s rights are clearly explained by adequate Mi- Though Spring, 6. Moss was decided after it is nonetheless without precedential weight because a United States Court construc- constructions, supercedes contrary tion of the federal constitution all and because note in simply Moss casual which dictum ex- plained that even Dixon and Rickman decision would not have appellant’s sustained the or meritless claim in that case. There is no hint suggestion Spring Moss that had even been considered.
69 I police, scrupulously honored warnings7 and randa deception by from “compulsion” arising no possible see If the suspicions facts entertained. as to known police would thinking guilt into denial suspect is “tricked” thrown be outwitted and police or that the could futile be scent, process suspect unwittingly in the and off evidence, I see no police inculpatory with provides Oregon interest Fifth Amendment violated. legitimate Cf. 713, 494, 711, 50 Mathiason, 492, 97 S.Ct. v. 714, (1977) falsely confessed after (suspect 718 L.Ed.2d found); v. Mos being finger Michigan his were prints told 3, 96, 3, 321, n. 324 n. 46 423 98 & 96 S.Ct. & U.S. ley, 313, (1975) after (suspect n. confessed L.Ed.2d & and suspect told another had confessed falsely being trigger-man); him as accord Commonwealth implicated 8, 1264, 1274 n. 423, 442 n. 521 Pa. Hughes, v. (the the Mi (1989) deception alleged would not invalidate established). Indeed, H. waiver, as Professor even if randa observed, “Only purest cogently has Richard UViller police deception is unac argue that all idealists would have a interrogation under must ceptable suspect of the state of the case complete account factually true informed, an and there him to him to make against allow Zeal, UViller, free, Tempered choice to cooperate.” fore con given into suspect legally custody, taken When warnings and has sufficient adequate Miranda stitutionally suspect’s understand the capacity warnings, mental rights, Fifth Amendment voluntarily election to waive to have “com part, or in be deemed been may whole suspect was tricked merely because the pelled” miscalculating of his election into the tactical wisdom rights. Amendment known and understood Fifth to waive constitutionally sig there fundamental and Succinctly, is a statement an compelled nificant difference between a Mendenhall, 446 unwise one. United States Cf. U.S. -, Eagan, 106 L.Ed.2d See 7. Duckworth (1989) (the warnings language is not to Miranda traditional incantation). required be as a talismanic treated 555-56 & S.Ct. 1878 & 64 L.Ed.2d (“It (1980) 510 & 513 may that a happen person makes *57 statements to law enforcement that later person] re- [the grets, but issue in such is cases not whether self-protective, statement was but rather whether it was made voluntarily,” again, “the question is not whether the [person] self-interest, acted in ultimate but [their] person] whether acted voluntarily”). [the Watson, Under United States v. United v. States Mat lock, Bustamonte, and Schneckloth v. no prophylactic Mi randa -type warnings required are an when officer re quests a to suspect search, consent to a regardless of whether the is in suspect police custody at the time of the request. As a corollary reasoning above, to the set forth I see no reason why police deception should vitiate consent to search, unless the deception to suspect’s went search, right to deny right consent to or the deny to consent to search without penalty. Sales, See Lo-Ji Inc. v. New York, supra; Bumper Carolina, v. North supra; Go-Bart States, Importing Co. v. United supra; Commonwealth v. supra. If Wright, police deception went only to the consent, purpose example by acting undercover, by withholding information as to existing knowledge or suspi cions, or by affirmatively misleading the as to suspect search, and not to the suspect’s right purpose decline consent penalty, without the consent would remain uncoerced, hence, valid. See United States voluntary Caceres, v. supra; White, United States v. supra; Osborn States, United supra; States, v. United supra; Hoffa supra; Commonwealth v. Morgan, Commonwealth v. Al brecht, supra; Brown, Commonwealth v. supra; Com Slaton, monwealth v. supra (Kelly, J., dissenting); Com Carelli, monwealth v. supra; Ginter, supra; Commonwealth v. Schaszberger, supra; Common Morrison, wealth supra.
Moreover, even applying the entirely inapplicable Fifth Amendment, presumptively coercive custodial interrogation, Miranda waiver analysis Amendment, to this Fourth non- submitting to a non-custodial, (by consent to search coercive “intelli- test) case, was still made the consent alcohol blood analysis. in Miranda waiver as that term used gently” in the component Miranda “intelligent” Succinctly, knowledge rights, of the rule refers to waiver from may flow waiv- consequences of the which knowledge rights. er appellant, no evidence that
Here, absolutely there is citizen, not aware States intelligent United reasonably express consent for right give had to decline to that she consent; there is no requested test. The officer blood of right he a claim in this record that made suggestion Moreover, there is given. consent was the time authority degree being employed tactics of abusive third history no *58 from drivers involved to blood tests coerce consent submit in custody who are not when in serious auto accidents justify imposition prophy- so to of requested, as consent Fourth Amendment -type warnings outlining lactic Miranda 1; Williams, n. supra at Com- rights. Commonwealth v. Slaton, A.2d at 1364. Further- supra, monwealth v. more, require warnings, if there were cause to such even addressed to the nature of they still would have be and not the nature of rights, Fourth Amendment appellant’s disadvantages ramifications” and tactical the “criminal of Amendment might arise from a waiver Fourth which consent to search. rights by giving express assuming, that Fifth Amendment cus- Finally, arguendo, interrogation, analysis apply, todial Miranda waiver could analysis to that custody the limitation would not “intelligent of choice” aspect and that some the apply, Supreme Court in the custodial rejected approach context, Fifth Amendment waiver interrogation, Miranda non-custodial, in this Fourth apply could nonetheless Amendment, submitting to search voluntary (by consent test) case, with agree alcohol I still could not a blood the notice adequacy assessment majority’s provided by criminal possible ramification officer. Can it be reasonably appellant, believed that who was a driver accident, involved a fatality causing did not know it drunk, that was crime to drive or that if the test blood requested by the police significant officer revealed levels of alcohol in her charges might blood that criminal be filed against her? Has the Commonwealth’s campaign against drunk driving been that I ineffective? think not.
Rather,
that,
I would find
absent evidence of serious
on
part
mental defect
of the suspect, when an
officer
scene of
serious accident asks a driver
in the
involved
accident to consent to take a blood alcohol
(especially
test
when the suspect is informed that the results of the blood
alcohol test would
used in the
investigation)
be
accident
suspect
been
has
more than sufficiently put on notice
potential criminal ramifications of consent
cir-
very
cumstances
which the consent to take a blood alcohol
was requested.
Dixon,
test
supra,
Cf.
(the
IV. Conclusion case, In the instant appellant was a driver involved in a fatality causing auto accident. The investigating officer if asked she would consent a blood alcohol test. He informed her that the result that test would be used in investigation his of the accident. He further informed her *59 arrest, that she was not under and that he charg- was not ing her any with crime at that time.
There was no coercion no deception. Appellant vol- untarily consented test, to take the and then voluntarily submitted to the I test. see no grounds to deem the consent invalid.
Neither Constitution, the United States nor Pennsyl- Constitution, vania require police officers to talk suspects of taking out blood alcohol tests in the of gaining course their voluntary consent to such take tests. is precisely That pre- and that require, analysis will majority’s what I dissent cisely why reasons, Dissent. respectfully I foregoing
For the Pennsylvania COMMONWEALTH of KOHL, Appellant. Bruce A. Pennsylvania.
Superior Court of Argued 1989. Oct.
Filed June 1990. Appeal Granted Petition for Allowance Nov. 1990.
