A Terry stop frisk is based on what standard of suspicion?

A Terry stop frisk is based on what standard of suspicion?

• A. Probable cause
• B. Reasonable suspicion
• C. Preponderance of evidence
• D. Beyond a reasonable doubt

Answer: (B)

Reasonable suspicion is the standard for a Terry stop and the accompanying frisk. Under the Terry v. Ohio framework, officers may briefly detain a person to investigate suspected criminal activity when they have a reasonable belief, based on the totality of the circumstances, that something criminal may be afoot. The frisk—the pat-down for weapons—is allowed only if there is independent reasonable suspicion that the person is armed and dangerous. This standard sits between a mere hunch and probable cause: it’s more than a guess, but not as demanding as proof needed to arrest or search with a warrant. If the circumstances change or don’t support the suspicion, the stop must end.

Reasonable suspicion is the standard for a Terry stop and the accompanying frisk. Under the Terry v. Ohio framework, officers may briefly detain a person to investigate suspected criminal activity when they have a reasonable belief, based on the totality of the circumstances, that something criminal may be afoot. The frisk—the pat-down for weapons—is allowed only if there is independent reasonable suspicion that the person is armed and dangerous. This standard sits between a mere hunch and probable cause: it’s more than a guess, but not as demanding as proof needed to arrest or search with a warrant. If the circumstances change or don’t support the suspicion, the stop must end.