What evidence is required to establish reasonable suspicion?

To establish reasonable suspicion, it is essential to rely on articulable facts based on the officer’s judgment. This means that an officer must have specific, objective observations or information that leads them to believe that a crime may be taking place or is about to occur. These facts should be more than just a vague hunch; they need to be able to be articulated clearly and logically as the basis for suspicion.

Articulable facts can include a variety of indicators such as the behavior of individuals, the time of day, location, and patterns of activity that are known to be associated with criminal behavior. This requirement allows officers to make informed and prudent decisions while ensuring that the rights of individuals are respected, as it limits the potential for arbitrary stops or searches.

While witness testimony, direct visual evidence, or a confession can enhance a case, they are not required to simply establish reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion is a lower standard than probable cause, which requires more substantial evidence, making the articulable facts derived from an officer’s judgment the cornerstone of establishing reasonable suspicion.