People v. Martinez

Summary

Supreme Court reversed conviction of four accused for illegal possession of dangerous drugs during social gathering. Police conducted warrantless entry into private residence based solely on uncorroborated tip from informant who had no personal knowledge. Court found arrest illegal as it lacked probable cause required under Rule 113. Search violated constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. Additionally, chain of custody was fatally broken - no physical inventory conducted, no photographs taken, items improperly marked, and irregular documentation. Court emphasized that evidence obtained through illegal search is inadmissible as fruit of poisonous tree. Decision reinforces importance of constitutional protections and proper procedures in dangerous drugs cases, warning law enforcers that failure to follow prescribed procedures compromises prosecutions.