Failure to follow the dictates of the law when acting in an official capacity can turn a slam-dunk case into a misfire. Unfortunately, investigating officers aren’t always up on relevant—and often confusing and evolving—case law. The Arrest, Search and Seizure Electronic Tool, also known as ASSET, was developed by UNC School of Government Assistant Professor Jeff Welty to give LEOs the legal tools they need, when they need them.
The app can be used as a quick reference guide on the law and investigations for officers, public officials, and even students. For example, if an officer has a question about a search warrant or a traffic stop, he or she can refer to ASSET to quickly get an answer. ASSET contains vital information about the legal issues officers confront every day, from obtaining search warrants, to the grounds for Terry stops, to proper use of GPS tracking devices. The ASSET app includes information on arrest and detention, digital investigation, interrogation, lineups and showups, nontestimonial ID orders, search warrants, and warrantless searches.
Moreover, ASSET doesn’t require an Internet connection, making it ideal for multiple environments, particularly inside buildings with poor or disabled connectivity or in locations where network coverage is unavailable. The ASSET app can be downloaded via iTunes now and a version for Android will be available in summer 2013. To learn more about the groups currently using the ASSET app, visit the N.C. Department of Justice at www.NCDOJ.gov or the N.C. Sheriffs’ Association at www.NCSheriffs.org.
