North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What is the purpose of an investigative stop?

1. To reprimand individuals for unlawful behavior

2. To determine whether there is probable cause

3. To collect evidence before an arrest

4. To interrogate subjects without prior notice

The correct answer is: To determine whether there is probable cause

The purpose of an investigative stop fundamentally lies in determining whether there is probable cause to make an arrest. During an investigative stop, law enforcement officers have a reasonable suspicion that a person may be involved in criminal activity. This allows them to temporarily detain the individual to further assess the situation and gather necessary information. The goal is not to immediately apprehend the individual but to ascertain whether further action, such as an arrest, is warranted based on the findings during the stop. An investigative stop does not serve simply to reprimand individuals, which is more aligned with punitive actions after an offense has been established. Additionally, while collecting evidence may occur during the stop, the primary focus is on assessing the situation rather than actively gathering evidence for legal proceedings. Furthermore, interrogating subjects without prior notice falls outside of the standard practices of law enforcement during an investigative stop, which typically involves reasonable questioning based on observed behavior or circumstances.