The fourth amendment and aerial surveillance: Searching for guidelines

Advances in technology have given law enforcement agencies additional capabilities when performing surveillance activities. One area in particular—aerial surveillance—especially demonstrates the possible intrusiveness of police investigatory activity.

One of the most important considerations in the area of aerial surveillance is striking a balance between the necessity of police activities and protections guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment. Cases relating to aerial surveillance have sought to develop guidelines for police agencies in this expanding area of search and seizure inquiry.