What is a "Terry stop" in law enforcement?

A "Terry stop" refers to a brief stop and inquiry by law enforcement officers when they have a reasonable suspicion that a person is involved in criminal activity. This concept arises from the landmark Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, which established that officers could stop a suspect on the street for questioning if they have specific, articulable facts suggesting that the individual may be involved in criminal conduct.

The underlying principle of a Terry stop balances the need for police to maintain public safety and address potential criminal behavior while also respecting individuals' Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. During a Terry stop, officers are permitted to ask questions and may conduct a limited pat-down for weapons if they believe the person may be armed and dangerous, but this does not constitute a full arrest or a search requiring a warrant.

In contrast, the other options describe scenarios that do not align with the legal parameters or definitions of a Terry stop, emphasizing the distinct nature of this procedure in law enforcement practice.