What may a police officer search after making a custodial arrest for a traffic offense?

Following a custodial arrest, a police officer is permitted to conduct a search of the arrestee and their belongings to ensure officer safety and to preserve evidence. This authority is grounded in the precedent established by court rulings regarding searches incident to arrest.

When an officer makes a custodial arrest, they can search the individual for several reasons. First, searching the person's clothing allows law enforcement to remove any weapons that could pose a danger to the officer. Additionally, searching pockets and items such as wallets gives officers the opportunity to uncover any evidence related to the offense for which the person was arrested, as well as checking for any contraband.

The breadth of the search extends not just to what the arrestee is wearing but also traditionally includes pockets and personal items like wallets that are on the arrestee, which are directly associated with them at that moment. This is essential for both ensuring safety during the arrest process and gathering potential evidence.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of what an officer can search following a custodial arrest, as they limit the search excessively or do not acknowledge the importance of checking all belongings in immediate possession of the arrestee. Thus, the correct understanding of police authority in this context affirms that an officer can