What characterizes reasonable suspicion?

Reasonable suspicion is characterized by being based on articulable facts or reasons rather than relying solely on an officer's intuition or instincts. This means that the officer must be able to describe specific facts or circumstances that justify the suspicion of criminal activity. The standard is meant to be a lower threshold than probable cause, as it allows officers to temporarily detain or investigate an individual when there is a particular reason to believe that the person might be involved in unlawful behavior.

Articulable facts can include observations such as unusual behavior, the time of day, location, or any other specific indicators that suggest possible wrongdoing. These facts are important because they provide a rational basis for the officer’s suspicion, ensuring that law enforcement actions are grounded in evidence rather than arbitrary feelings or assumptions.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the legal standard of reasonable suspicion. Relying solely on gut feelings, assumptions without evidence, or past behavior would not meet the required standard because they lack the necessary factual basis to justify a stop or investigation.