When an informant tip is untested, the stop is justified if the officer has what standard under totality of circumstances?

• A. Probable cause
• B. Reasonable suspicion
• C. Beyond a reasonable doubt
• D. Preponderance of evidence

Answer: (B)

Reasonable suspicion is the level of belief that something criminal may be happening, based on facts or circumstances the officer can articulate under the totality of the circumstances. An informant tip that hasn’t been tested can contribute to that assessment, but it isn’t enough on its own. If the tip is supported by other observable details—such as corroborating observations, the informant’s reliability, or specific, matching behavior in the area—the combination can create a reasonable suspicion that justifies a brief stop (and potentially a frisk, if warranted). This is distinct from probable cause, which is needed for an arrest or a search; and from the standards of evidence used for conviction or civil cases.