If the only evidence that someone committed a crime is on their cell phone, the authorities haven't done a thorough investigation and they shouldn't be rewarded for laziness.
Let's take it one step back from electronic devices.
If a corrupt businessman kept encoded records in a notepad, the authorities could compel him to turn over that notebook but no warrant can compel him to explain its contents. That's what encryption is. They authorities can seize the device but they can not force you to explain how to interpret what's in it.
Fortunately, high profile data breaches have put the thought in the public mind that weaknesses can be exploited. We can use that concern to keep people from demanding back-doors.
Let's take it one step back from electronic devices.
If a corrupt businessman kept encoded records in a notepad, the authorities could compel him to turn over that notebook but no warrant can compel him to explain its contents. That's what encryption is. They authorities can seize the device but they can not force you to explain how to interpret what's in it.
Fortunately, high profile data breaches have put the thought in the public mind that weaknesses can be exploited. We can use that concern to keep people from demanding back-doors.