Which item is the correct element for the Independent Source exception to the taint under the Fruit of the Poisonous Tree?

• A. Grand Jury
• B. Good Faith Reliance by Police
• C. Intervening Acts of the Defendant
• D. Independent Source

Answer: (D)

The main idea behind this exception is that tainted evidence can still be admitted if it was found through an independent source—one that would have led to discovery without any illegal police conduct. The correct element is that the evidence comes from an independent source, not from information or leads derived from the tainted search. For example, if another lawful investigation uncovers the same evidence through a completely separate route, that evidence satisfies the independent source requirement and can be admitted. The other choices reference different doctrines or situations (grand jury proceedings, good-faith reliance, or defendant’s intervening acts) and do not define the independent source concept.