Which term describes a limited investigatory stop based on reasonable suspicion?

• A. Third degree
• B. Stop and frisk
• C. Terry stop
• D. Uniform Crime Reports

Answer: (C)

A Terry stop is a brief, limited detention permitted when an officer has reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Originating from Terry v. Ohio, it allows a quick inquiry to confirm or dispel the suspicion, and a frisk for weapons if there’s also a reasonable danger concern. This matches the idea of a limited investigatory stop based on reasonable suspicion.

The other terms don’t fit: third degree refers to a type of offense, not a stop; Uniform Crime Reports is a data collection program; stop and frisk describes the broader practice (including a frisk) rather than the specific legal label for the stop itself.