GPSTC Criminal Procedure Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Test Prep

The Exclusionary Rule was established primarily to deter unlawful conduct by law enforcement. This legal principle prevents evidence that has been obtained through violations of a person's Fourth Amendment rights, such as illegal searches and seizures, from being used in court. By excluding such evidence, the rule aims to discourage police and law enforcement agencies from engaging in unconstitutional practices, thereby promoting accountability and upholding the integrity of the judicial system.

The overall intent is to maintain the constitutional protections that safeguard citizens against government overreach, thereby reinforcing the idea that the ends do not justify means that violate individual rights. This deterrence aspect serves to improve law enforcement practices by encouraging officers to follow legal protocols when gathering evidence.