Reasonable suspicion is defined as facts, standing alone, which are not sufficient to indicate that a crime has or is being committed but indicate that what?

• A. Probable cause exists
• B. Further investigation is warranted
• C. Evidence beyond a reasonable doubt
• D. An arrest will be made

Answer: (B)

Reasonable suspicion rests on specific, articulable facts that would lead a reasonable officer to believe that criminal activity may be afoot, even though those facts aren’t enough to prove a crime has occurred. Because it is a lower threshold than probable cause, it justifies a brief detention and allows officers to investigate further to confirm or dispel the suspicion. The completion of the idea is that further investigation is warranted, since the goal is to quickly assess the situation and gather more information rather than to arrest or convict. The other options imply a higher standard or outcome (probable cause, evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, or an arrest), which reasonable suspicion does not authorize.