Rule 212. Dissemination of Search Warrant Information.

 The issuing authority shall not make any search warrants and any affidavit(s) of probable cause available for public inspection or dissemination until the warrant has been executed, but in no case shall the delay be longer than 48 hours after the warrant has been issued.

   Execution of search warrants carries the potential risk of hazard and premature dissemination of the intention to execute a warrant may greatly increase that risk. For this reason, this rule was adopted in 2008 to delay the dissemination of search warrant information to the general public until after execution or no longer than 48 hours after issuance, whichever is sooner. This rule does not deny disclosure of search warrant information to the public, but rather, temporarily delays the dissemination of that information in order to protect public safety.

 Once the warrant is executed, the information may be disseminated unless sealed pursuant to Rule 211.

   Official Note

   Rule 212 adopted June 23, 2008, effective August 1, 2008.

   The provisions of this Rule 212 adopted June 23, 2008, effective August 1, 2008, 38 Pa.B. 3651.