What is the name of the 1968 U.S. Supreme Court case that established the legal basis for Stop and Frisk procedures?

The 1968 U.S. Supreme Court case that established the legal basis for Stop and Frisk procedures is Terry v. Ohio. This landmark ruling affirmed that law enforcement officers can stop and briefly detain a person based on reasonable suspicion that the person may be involved in criminal activity, even if there is not sufficient probable cause for an arrest. The Court's decision balanced the need for police to protect themselves and others while also respecting individuals' Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures.

In this case, the Court recognized that officers have the responsibility to ensure their safety and the safety of others during encounters with suspicious individuals. As such, they are allowed to perform a limited frisk or pat-down for weapons if they have a reasonable belief that the person may be armed. This standard of "reasonable suspicion" is a crucial legal principle applied in everyday policing practices across the United States.

Understanding this case is essential for law enforcement personnel as it provides the foundation for procedures used in various situations to maintain public safety while adhering to constitutional protections.