Under the emergency exception, which scenario would justify an investigative stop?

• A. A welfare check request during daylight
• B. A routine traffic stop for a minor violation
• C. An anonymous tip about loud music
• D. An anonymous tip indicates an ongoing emergency with potential danger

Answer: (D)

Under the emergency exception, investigative stops are justified when there is an imminent threat to life or safety that requires a quick response. An anonymous tip indicating an ongoing emergency with potential danger fits that scenario because it signals an active situation where delay could put people at risk, so officers may briefly stop to assess the threat and take steps to ensure safety without waiting for ordinary warrants or proof.

The other situations do not describe an ongoing emergency: a welfare check is about checking someone’s well-being, not necessarily an emergent danger; a routine traffic stop for a minor violation rests on observed traffic law, not an urgent threat; and a tip about loud music does not suggest immediate danger.