What is the primary purpose of a stop and frisk?

The primary purpose of a stop and frisk is to determine if an individual is armed. This practice is rooted in the need for police officers to ensure their safety and the safety of others in situations where they have a reasonable suspicion that a person may be involved in criminal activity. During a stop and frisk, an officer has the right to pat down a person's outer clothing to check for weapons without needing a warrant or probable cause for an arrest. This brief investigation allows officers to assess immediate threats and protect themselves and the public from potential harm.

The emphasis on checking for weapons highlights the focus on officer safety and quick assessment of potential risk during an interaction with individuals suspected of criminal behavior. This legal framework is guided by the principles established in the landmark case of Terry v. Ohio, which reinforced the idea that officers can take reasonable steps to ensure their safety while balancing constitutional rights.