The People of the State of New York, Respondent v. Nick Chiagles, Appellant

Summary

The Court affirmed the lower court's order allowing the district attorney to retain two letters seized from the defendant during a lawful search incident to his arrest for arson. It held that a search incident to arrest may lawfully seize any items of evidentiary value, including papers, and that the privilege against self‑incrimination does not require the return of such evidence.