Which of the following are elements of an investigatory detention?

• A. Based on reasonable suspicion
• B. Suspect is briefly detained for purpose of investigation
• C. Officer may pat down, ONLY if there is reasonable suspicion that the suspect is armed AND dangerous
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Investigatory detention, often called a Terry stop, hinges on three connected ideas. First, the police must have reasonable suspicion that the person is involved in criminal activity. Second, that suspicion justifies briefly detaining the person to investigate further, rather than making an arrest. The detention must be temporary and limited in scope and duration. Third, if the officer reasonably suspects the person is armed and dangerous, a pat-down search for weapons is allowed to ensure safety; this frisk is limited to outer clothing and aimed at discovering weapons, not collecting evidence. When all three conditions are present—reasonable suspicion, a brief investigative detention, and a lawful frisk when warranted—they encompass the elements of an investigatory detention.