What does a protective sweep entail?

A protective sweep involves a brief and focused search for potential individuals who may pose a threat in a building, particularly during or after an arrest or when officers believe others may be present. This type of search is aimed at ensuring the safety of officers and preventing harm before securing the premises.

The key aspects of a protective sweep include its limited scope and the emphasis on officer safety rather than searching for evidence or contraband. It is not a detailed investigation or a comprehensive examination; those activities are distinct and typically more involved. Similarly, a protective sweep is not a surveillance operation, as that would involve observing an area or individuals over time rather than conducting a search of a specific location.