No-Knock Warrants

HB 255 repeals Maryland's authorization for no-knock search warrants, which allowed police to enter properties without announcing their presence. The bill requires all search warrants to follow standard procedures, mandating officers to announce their authority and purpose before entry. It eliminates the specific exceptions and detailed requirements previously allowed for no-knock warrants, including the need for supervisor and prosecutor approval, explanations of why less invasive methods weren't used, and restrictions on execution times. This change directly affects law enforcement officers executing search warrants across Maryland.