What is an appropriate action when a peace officer suspects concealed weapons during a detention?

When a peace officer suspects that an individual may be carrying concealed weapons during a detention, conducting a cursory/pat search is a justified action if there is reasonable suspicion that the individual is armed and poses a threat to the officer or others. This type of search, often referred to as a Terry stop, is a limited and specific measure intended to ensure safety without infringing on the individual's rights more than necessary.

The key component is "reasonable suspicion," which means that the officer must have specific and articulable facts, along with rational inferences from those facts, that lead them to believe the person may be armed. This allows the officer to address their safety concerns while still respecting the individual's rights.

In contrast, immediate arrest may not be warranted without probable cause, which is a higher standard than reasonable suspicion. Requesting the individual to leave the area does not address the immediate concern of safety if they are suspected of carrying a weapon. Inspecting the area for weapons without touching the person would not sufficiently ensure the officer's safety if they believe the individual may have a weapon on their person. Therefore, conducting a cursory/pat search reflects a balanced approach to safety and legal protocols in such scenarios.