Can high school assistant principals search student vehicles for tobacco?

J

jordant

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I go to high school in Texas and was caught smoking a cigarette with my buddies in the parking lot after school today. A teacher saw us and took us inside to the principals office for smoking tobacco. They did some paperwork and then took our keys to search our vehicles for more tobacco products. They didn't have search warrants and there were no cops present, so I was wondering if they are even allowed to do that? Not only that, but I always thought it was fine to smoke in the parking lot because there are no signs that say you can't. There is only a sign on the school door that says not drugs, weapons, etc. beyond this point. Wouldn't "beyond this point" mean through the school door, making the other side fine to possess these items, and if not, then that sign is flawed and I shouldn't be getting in trouble, or I could possibly sue?
 
Yes, they can do that and no warrant is needed. School administrators have wide authority to maintain discipline. Tobacco is not allowed anywhere on school property, which includes the parking lot.

Jim A, most if not every state bans tobacco possession by anyone of any age on school grounds, including in the car.
 
where's the aclu on illegal search and seizure on a LEGAL substance in a vehicle//
 
100% legal

On school grounds they have very wide control

Note: Your smoking is about the dumbest thing you could ever do.
 
Read your student handbook. It more than likely says that smoking is prohibited ANYWHERE on school property in accordance with state laws. Since this is probably in your handbook, there is no need to put signs in the parking lot. The handbook also will say that school administration reserves the right to search any vehicle, locker, backpack, bag, box, etc. on school grounds in the name of general safety of the student body. It probably also says that by parking on school grounds, you consent to a search of your vehicle at any time by administration. You more than likely signed a form near the beginning of the school year that stated that you read the Student handbook, understand all the rules, and agree to follow them.

You are screwed and have no further legal recourse.

Jim A,

If this person is under 18, possession of tobacco is not legal. Also, by parking on school grounds, you agree to follow the rules of the school which includes the prohibition of tobacco products on their property regardless of your age and the ability of administrators to search your vehicle.
 
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