What does "reasonable suspicion" entail?

"Reasonable suspicion" is a legal standard used in criminal procedure that allows law enforcement officers to stop and briefly detain a person for investigative purposes if they have specific and articulable facts that suggest the person may be involved in criminal activity. This standard is more than a mere hunch but does not require the same level of evidence as probable cause.

The correct answer emphasizes that reasonable suspicion must be grounded in specific facts rather than vague or general assumptions. This specificity might include observed behaviors, conversations, or other factual indicators that suggest unlawful conduct. It is crucial for law enforcement to articulate these facts, as they provide the necessary justification for the stop or detention.

In summary, reasonable suspicion hinges on an officer's observation of concrete evidence or behavior, which can objectively support their belief that the individual is engaged in criminal activity, rather than relying on general assumptions, sole witness statements, or past encounters alone.