Police Entrance Practice Exam

What is the significance of the case "Terry v. Ohio"?

1. It established guidelines for search warrants

2. It legalized racial profiling

3. It clarified stop-and-frisk legality based on reasonable suspicion

4. It determined the use of excessive force

The correct answer is: It clarified stop-and-frisk legality based on reasonable suspicion

The case "Terry v. Ohio" is significant because it clarified the legality of stop-and-frisk procedures based on reasonable suspicion. In this landmark decision, the Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement officers are permitted to stop and briefly detain a person for questioning if they have a reasonable suspicion that the individual is engaged in criminal activity. Moreover, if the officer believes the person may be armed and dangerous, they are allowed to conduct a limited pat-down of the person’s outer clothing to ensure they are not carrying a weapon. This ruling is essential as it balances the need for police officers to ensure their safety and that of the public while also protecting individuals’ Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. The case set a precedent that continues to influence law enforcement practices across the United States. It is important to note that while the ruling allows for stop-and-frisk under reasonable suspicion, it does not permit arbitrary or discriminatory enforcement practices, thereby emphasizing the necessity of facts or evidence to justify such actions.