Kansas Highway Patrol's 'Two-Step' Ruled Unconstitutional by Judge

A federal judge has ruled that the Kansas Highway Patrol's "two-step" tactic, which involves detaining motorists without reasonable suspicion, is unconstitutional. The practice allows troopers to initiate voluntary interactions with drivers after a traffic stop, providing extra time to search for incriminating evidence or bring in drug-sniffing dogs. The judge's order requires troopers to inform drivers of their right to refuse and revoke consent, and to document consent on a written form. The ACLU, which sued the KHP on behalf of individuals subjected to the tactic, hailed the ruling as a significant victory. Both parties have until mid-August to respond to the terms of a possible injunction.