What constitutes reasonable suspicion?

Reasonable suspicion is defined as a standard used by law enforcement that is based on specific and articulable facts which lead an officer to believe that a person may be involved in criminal activity. This standard goes beyond mere hunches or gut feelings; it requires observable behaviors, circumstances, or information that can be articulated in the context of a situation. This approach ensures that law enforcement actions are grounded in objective evidence rather than subjective feelings.

The requirement for specific and articulable facts is essential because it protects individuals from arbitrary stops and searches, thus balancing the need for public safety with civil liberties. By relying on concrete evidence rather than vague assumptions or general concerns, law enforcement can justify their actions and uphold the standards of accountability.