Federal Judge Rules Warrantless Phone Searches by Border Agents Unconstitutional

The decision in New York's Eastern District mandates warrants for electronic device searches, impacting both citizens and international travelers.

Judge Nina Morrison ruled the initial search of Kurbonali Sultanov's phone at JFK Airport violated the Fourth Amendment.
The ruling only applies to New York's Eastern District but may influence broader border search practices.
Civil liberties groups, including the Knight First Amendment Institute, supported the ruling citing privacy and press freedom concerns.
The court allowed evidence from the search, noting agents acted in good faith under existing laws.
The decision adds to ongoing legal debates about privacy rights and border security.