An officer may seize contraband recognized during a valid stop and frisk under which legal principle?

The principle that allows an officer to seize contraband recognized during a valid stop and frisk is known as the plain touch or feel doctrine. This legal concept is rooted in the broader idea of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. During a lawful stop and frisk, if an officer feels an object that is immediately recognizable as contraband through their sense of touch, they are permitted to seize that item without a warrant.

The rationale behind this doctrine is that a lawful stop and frisk is based on reasonable suspicion that the person may be armed and dangerous. As officers conduct a pat-down for weapons, any contraband that is felt and can be clearly identified, such as illegal drugs or weapons, can be seized without further justification. This principle strikes a balance between the need for police to ensure their safety and the individual's rights against unreasonable searches.

Understanding this doctrine is crucial for law enforcement officers, as it dictates how they can act during encounters that arise from reasonable suspicion, ensuring that they remain within legal boundaries while effectively addressing criminal activity.