When may an officer engage in an inventory search?

An inventory search is a procedure conducted by law enforcement officers to catalog items in a vehicle or personal property when it is impounded or otherwise taken into custody. These searches are generally carried out to protect the property of the owner and to safeguard the officers against wrongful claims of theft or damage.

The correct situation for an officer to engage in an inventory search is when there is probable cause. This reflects the principle that inventory searches are typically authorized after a lawful seizure of property, where officers are responsible for securing and listing belongings without stepping into unconstitutional territory. Probable cause ensures that the search is justifiable within the legal framework, aligning with the necessity to balance law enforcement duties and individual rights.

The other options suggest circumstances that do not meet the necessary legal standards or context for conducting an inventory search. For example, consent must be voluntary and informed, which doesn't inherently apply to all arrests. Furthermore, inventory searches do not rely solely on the presence of major incidents or the physical absence of a driver, as they must comply with established legal guidelines focused on lawful custody and protection of property.