Which of the following is an example of an exception to the search warrant requirement?

The exception to the search warrant requirement that is identified in the correct answer is "Plain view." This principle allows law enforcement officers to seize evidence of a crime without a warrant if they are lawfully present at a location and observe contraband or evidence of a crime that is immediately apparent.

For this to apply, the officer must have the right to be in the location where the evidence is seen, the item must be visible without any manipulation, and it must be clear that the item is evidence of a crime or contraband. This exception is crucial because it enables officers to act quickly to secure evidence without the need for the delays that obtaining a warrant can cause, particularly in situations where evidence might be destroyed.

Other given options do not meet the established legal criteria for warrantless searches. Intuition alone does not provide the concrete basis required for action; witness statements can lead to investigative actions but do not create an exception to the search warrant rule; and while police authority is central to law enforcement, it does not inherently allow for searches without a warrant unless there is a recognized exception, such as plain view. Thus, the principle of "Plain view" stands out as a well-established legal doctrine that highlights the balance between effective law enforcement and individual rights.