The standard of proof for Stop, Question, and Frisk is known as?

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

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that Stop, Question, and Frisk operate under a threshold called reasonable suspicion. This is a lower bar than probable cause, but higher than a mere hunch. An officer must be able to point to specific facts and rational inferences from those facts that would lead a reasonable person to believe that criminal activity may be afoot. Those facts must be articulable—that is, the officer can explain what was observed and why it amounts to suspicion.

This standard lets officers briefly detain someone to investigate and, if necessary for safety, conduct a frisk when there’s a reasonable belief the person is armed. It’s not enough to guess or feel uneasy; there must be concrete, explainable circumstances. For example, encountering someone in a high-crime area who matches a description and behaves in a way suggesting possible wrongdoing can justify a stop. A frisk would come into play only if the circumstances give a reasonable concern for the officer’s safety.

Keep in mind that reasonable suspicion sits between vague suspicion and probable cause, which is required for an arrest or search warrant, and far short of the standard for conviction, which is beyond a reasonable doubt.