Which type of search involves checking for items that might be hidden on a person?

A frisk or pat-down search is a quick, hands-on method used by law enforcement officers to determine if an individual is concealing weapons or illegal items on their person. This type of search is typically conducted in situations where the officer has reasonable suspicion that the individual may be armed or pose a threat. The primary aim is to ensure safety for both the officer and the individual, rather than to retrieve illegal items or contraband directly.

During a frisk, the officer can pat the outer clothing of the person to feel for any concealed objects. This is a less intrusive method compared to a strip search or a body cavity search. A body cavity search involves a more invasive examination and is usually performed in specific situations where there is probable cause that contraband is hidden within the body cavities, making it quite different in purpose and execution from a pat-down search. Similarly, a strip search involves removing clothing and can be more invasive in nature than a simple pat-down. A random search does not focus on an individual but rather on an area or group, thus it does not apply when specifically checking a person for hidden items.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the policies and procedures concerning the search of individuals in law enforcement settings.