Which term is defined as a level of suspicion that does not equate to probable cause for arrest?

The term refers to a level of suspicion that is less than probable cause but still allows law enforcement to take further investigative action. Reasonable suspicion provides the basis for police officers to stop and question a person or conduct a brief investigative detention. This standard is established in the context of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, allowing officers to act on their observations and experiences without needing the stronger evidence required for probable cause.

This distinction is essential in understanding the balance between maintaining public safety and respecting individual rights. While probable cause is necessary for making an arrest or securing a search warrant, reasonable suspicion is adequate for a temporary detention, like a stop and frisk, thereby enabling officers to further investigate possible criminal activity without violating constitutional protections.

Other terms such as probable cause, articulable suspicion, and intent to arrest carry different legal thresholds and implications concerning law enforcement actions. These nuances highlight why reasonable suspicion is the appropriate term in this context.