What does reasonable suspicion allow an officer to do?

Reasonable suspicion provides law enforcement officers with the authority to stop and investigate a potentially suspicious person based on specific and articulable facts that suggest the individual may be involved in criminal activity. This standard is less stringent than probable cause, which is required for arrest or full searches.

When an officer has reasonable suspicion, they may perform a temporary detention known as a "stop," during which they can ask questions and, if necessary, perform a limited pat-down for weapons if they believe the person may be armed. The concept of reasonable suspicion is rooted in the need to balance individual rights with the necessity of law enforcement to address potential criminal behavior quickly and effectively. This legal standard helps ensure that officers can act on their instincts and training when they perceive a potential threat or crime in progress while still respecting individual liberties.

The other options either overreach the authority granted by reasonable suspicion or address actions that require a higher standard of proof, such as probable cause.