Case v. Montana

William Case moved to dismiss evidence against him obtained when Montana Police entered his home after receiving a 911 call that led them to believe he may attempt or had attempted to commit suicide. While outside his home, the police noticed an empty gun holster and what appeared to be a suicide note which led them to conducting a warrantless home entry to render aid. An officer approached a closet and Case came out holding what appeared to be a gun. The officer then shot and injured Case with the belief that he was in imminent danger.

The majority opinion of the Supreme Court was that the police entering the home was lawful as there was a reasonable basis for believing that someone inside needed emergency aid. They stated that the standard probable cause that is typically required during crime investigation is not the same that is required in the context of emergency assistance.

Link to full text: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/25pdf/24-568_gfbh.pdf

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