According to Maryland v. Buie, what may officers do if they have reasonable suspicion of hidden danger during an arrest?

• A. Conduct a thorough search
• B. Issue a warning
• C. Conduct a protective sweep
• D. Call for backup

Answer: (C)

In Maryland v. Buie, the Supreme Court recognized that officers may conduct a protective sweep of the premises when they are making an arrest if they have reasonable suspicion that there are individuals present who may pose a danger to their safety. This ruling emphasizes that the primary concern for officers is their safety, and the protective sweep is a limited search for individuals in areas that are immediately adjoining the place of arrest or areas from which an attack could be launched.

The protective sweep is not as extensive as a full search; it is a quick and limited examination of spaces where a person could hide. This decision allows law enforcement to ensure their safety while balancing respect for individual privacy rights. In this case, the protection of officers from potential threats takes precedence and provides a justified legal basis to conduct the sweep. By assessing the circumstances, officers can act decisively if they perceive a risk, enabling them to proceed with their duties without exposing themselves to unnecessary danger.