What is the minimum level of proof required to conduct a vehicle stop?

The minimum level of proof required to conduct a vehicle stop is reasonable suspicion. This standard allows law enforcement officers to make a stop based on specific and articulable facts that suggest a person may be involved in criminal activity. Reasonable suspicion is a lower threshold compared to probable cause, which is needed for arrests or warrants.

When an officer observes behavior that raises suspicion—such as erratic driving, a match to a description of a suspect, or other indicators—they can lawfully initiate a stop to investigate further. This level of proof strikes a balance between individual rights and the need for police to ensure public safety. The officer must be able to articulate their reasons for suspicion, thus ensuring that the stop is not arbitrary but based on observable behavior or conditions.

In contrast, probable cause is required for arrests and is a higher standard, whereas beyond a reasonable doubt refers to the certainty required for convictions in criminal trials. Affidavit evidence typically relates to written statements made under oath and is not relevant for roadside stops. Thus, reasonable suspicion is the correct standard for initiating a vehicle stop.