Which statement correctly describes the requirements for a protective sweep?

Which statement correctly describes the requirements for a protective sweep?

• A. It can be done without lawful presence.
• B. It requires a warrant.
• C. The agent must be lawfully present and have reasonable suspicion that others present may threaten.
• D. It is limited to searching for contraband.

Answer: (C)

A protective sweep is a quick, limited check of areas around an arrest scene to ensure no one who could threaten officers is hidden nearby. The key requirement is that the officer is lawfully present at the location and has reasonable suspicion that others present may pose a threat. Because the purpose is safety, the search is narrowly focused on places where a person could be hiding, not a broad hunt for evidence or contraband. A warrant isn’t automatically required, but the sweep must be justified by lawful presence and reasonable suspicion (often in the context of an in-home arrest or similar situation).

A protective sweep is a quick, limited check of areas around an arrest scene to ensure no one who could threaten officers is hidden nearby. The key requirement is that the officer is lawfully present at the location and has reasonable suspicion that others present may pose a threat. Because the purpose is safety, the search is narrowly focused on places where a person could be hiding, not a broad hunt for evidence or contraband. A warrant isn’t automatically required, but the sweep must be justified by lawful presence and reasonable suspicion (often in the context of an in-home arrest or similar situation).