Federal Judge Deems Kansas Trooper's 'Two-Step' Tactic Unconstitutional

A federal judge has ordered the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) to cease its "two-step" technique, ruling that the KHP's policies and practices violate the Fourth Amendment. The technique involves ending a routine traffic stop and then initiating a separate effort to search for contraband. The court case was brought by plaintiffs who challenged the KHP's practice of targeting out-of-state motorists and conducting vehicle searches without reasonable suspicion or consent. The judge found the KHP's actions to be unconstitutional and a violation of motorists' rights. The ruling is seen as a significant victory by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Kansas.