What is the purpose of the exclusionary rule established by various Supreme Court cases?

The purpose of the exclusionary rule is primarily to deter police misconduct. This legal principle prohibits the use of evidence obtained through violations of a person's constitutional rights, especially during searches and seizures that do not comply with the Fourth Amendment. By barring such evidence from being used in court, the rule aims to encourage law enforcement to adhere strictly to legal protocols, thereby protecting individual rights and maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.

When police are aware that evidence obtained unlawfully will not be admissible in court, they are more likely to uphold constitutional protections during their investigations. This, in turn, fosters accountability among law enforcement officials and promotes public confidence in the legal system. The rule serves as a critical check on governmental power, ensuring that the ends do not justify unlawful means in the pursuit of justice.