In which instance can police enter a property without a warrant?

Police may enter a property without a warrant during an emergency search. This principle is rooted in the need to protect life and property and to prevent the destruction of evidence. In situations where there is an imminent threat, such as a person in danger or the potential for evidence destruction, officers are justified in bypassing the warrant requirement. This is considered an exigent circumstance, allowing them to respond quickly to the situation at hand.

While being invited inside may also allow officers to enter, such consent must be given voluntarily and is not universally applicable like the exigent circumstances rule. Routine checks typically require warrants, and entering under any circumstances does not align with the legal standards that govern police conduct. Hence, the correct answer reflects a recognized legal exception that underscores the balance between individual rights and public safety.