[SentraSE-R]

I taught at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, and it's always been my plan to refuse a request for a search, as a matter of principle. That said, I don't do drugs or have anything to hide, and I've never been asked. I'm not sure what I'll do if asked.

LEOs know when they ask, that they have no right to expect you to waive your Fourth Amendment rights. If you consent to a search, you're giving them a freebie.

The exception, as stated above, is exigency. If they have a report that someone fitting my description and driving a car like mine just committed a murder or armed robbery, they can search my car without my permission.

Another exception is if they see contraband in plain view in your car. That gives them probable cause to suspect you of committing a crime, and gives them the right to search your car w/o your permission.