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Oregon's Court of Appeals ruled that police improperly used "technologically-enhanced surveillance" to bust an illegal marijuana operation without a warrant. The case involved a 2021 investigation where a state police sergeant used a camera on a surveillance plane to identify a suspected marijuana grow from 5,000 feet in the air. The defendant, Sengdara Nakhiengchahn, argued the evidence was inadmissible, and the appeals court agreed, sending the case back to trial. Civil rights advocates lauded the decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining warrant requirements as police technology advances. The camera used was a Wescam MX-10, and despite the ruling, Oregon lawmakers recently approved funding for another such camera, citing its use for "search and rescue" and "critical incidents." Privacy advocates criticized the warrantless use of such technology, stating that law enforcement should seek warrants first.

Oregon Appeals Court Rules Police Used Aerial Camera Improperly in Cannabis Bust

Jul 8, 2025

Source:

Marijuana Moment

Marijuana Moment

The Oregon Court of Appeals recently delivered a major win for privacy rights, ruling that state police overstepped by using high-tech aerial cameras to bust a marijuana grow without a warrant. Back in 2021, an officer spotted a large-scale operation from 5,000 feet in the air using a Wescam MX-10—a powerful device that sees far more than the human eye. While the state argued the footage was fair game, the court disagreed, stating that using advanced tech to peer into private spaces requires a warrant.

This decision is a huge deal for the cannabis community because it draws a line in the sand against warrantless government snooping. As surveillance technology becomes more advanced and affordable, it’s refreshing to see the courts prioritize constitutional protections over easy convictions. For everyday tokers and growers, this ruling reinforces the idea that your private property shouldn't be a playground for high-altitude spy gear. It’s a vital reminder that even in a changing legal landscape, our basic right to be left alone still counts for something.

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