What is the primary legal principle established in Wong Sun v United States?

The primary legal principle established in Wong Sun v. United States centers around the concept of the "exclusionary rule," which asserts that evidence obtained as a result of illegal searches and seizures is generally inadmissible in court. This case specifically illustrates how evidence that is the "fruit" of an illegal entry — meaning that it was acquired through means that violate the Fourth Amendment — cannot be used against a defendant in a criminal prosecution.

In this case, Wong Sun challenged the legality of his arrest and the subsequent evidence obtained. The ruling highlighted the necessity of adhering to constitutional protections regarding unreasonable searches and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the judicial process by excluding such tainted evidence. This ensures that law enforcement practices respect constitutional rights and that defendants receive fair treatment under the law. This principle has significant implications for law enforcement and the prosecution of cases, as it sets clear boundaries on what constitutes admissible evidence in court.