In New York v Belton, what was determined about searching a vehicle after a lawful custodial arrest?

In New York v. Belton, the Supreme Court ruled that when a police officer makes a lawful custodial arrest of an occupant of a vehicle, the officer may search the entire passenger compartment of the vehicle as a contemporaneous incident of that arrest. This ruling allows law enforcement officers to ensure their safety and prevent the destruction of evidence by conducting a search of areas within reach of the arrestee.

The key element of this case is the recognition of the risks present during an arrest in a vehicle, which justifies the search without a warrant. This principle is rooted in the need for officer safety and the preservation of evidence, providing a clear framework that allows officers to act without unnecessary delay while ensuring that they maintain control over the situation.

This ruling established a standard that police may search not just for weapons but also for any evidence relevant to the charges for which the vehicle's occupant was arrested. Therefore, the ability to search the passenger compartment during an arrest is a critical component of the ruling, illustrating the balance between individual rights and the practical needs of law enforcement in ensuring security during police interactions.