Which standard lies between mere suspicion and probable cause, suggesting criminal activity may be occurring?

• A. Probable Cause
• B. Reasonable Suspicion
• C. Showup
• D. Silver Platter Doctrine

Answer: (B)

Reasonable suspicion is the standard between mere suspicion and probable cause. It requires specific, articulable facts, viewed under the totality of the circumstances, that would lead a reasonable officer to believe that criminal activity may be afoot. This threshold justifies brief stops and investigations (and a protective frisk if safety concerns exist), as established in Terry v. Ohio. It’s stronger than a mere hunch but not enough to justify an arrest or a full-blown search, which require probable cause. The other options aren’t about stop standards: a showup is an identification procedure used after an arrest or detention, and the Silver Platter Doctrine relates to how evidence obtained by state authorities can be used in federal court.