Legal Definitions - pat-down

A pat-down, also known as a frisk, is a type of inspection where a police officer checks an individual for weapons without conducting a full search of their person. The officer will pat down the individual's outer clothing to feel for any objects that could be a threat to their safety or the safety of others nearby.

For example, if a police officer pulls over a driver for a traffic violation and suspects that the driver may be carrying a weapon, the officer may conduct a pat-down search to ensure their safety before issuing a ticket.

It's important to note that a pat-down search is not the same as a full search. A pat-down search is only conducted to ensure the safety of the officer and others nearby, not to gather evidence for a trial. If the officer feels a bulge in the individual's clothing, they may take more intrusive measures, such as reaching into their pocket.

However, a pat-down search that goes beyond what is necessary to determine if an individual is armed is no longer valid.

Overall, a pat-down search is a limited inspection that police officers use to ensure their safety and the safety of others nearby.