When can an officer search a person after a lawful stop?

• A. Only after establishing probable cause
• B. When physical resistance is encountered
• C. Only during a traffic stop
• D. When there is reasonable suspicion of weapons or contraband

Answer: (D)

An officer can search a person after a lawful stop when there is reasonable suspicion of weapons or contraband. This principle stems from the need to ensure officer safety and prevent potential threats during interactions with individuals. The concept is grounded in the Terry v. Ohio decision, which established that law enforcement can conduct a limited frisk of a person when they have a reasonable belief that the person may be armed and dangerous. This is often termed a "stop and frisk."

It's important to note that the standard for conducting such a search is lower than that required for a full arrest, which necessitates probable cause. In situations where immediate safety concerns arise—such as the possibility of weapons being present—officers are justified in performing a brief, investigative search to neutralize potential threats. This balancing act between individual rights and law enforcement duties is fundamental in criminal procedure.

Other answers do not align with the standards for a lawful search following a stop. Probable cause is that higher standard and does not apply in this immediate context. The notion of searching only during a traffic stop or responding solely to physical resistance is also narrower than the broad principle governing such searches based on reasonable suspicion.