What does the term “investigative detention” allow an officer to do?

The term "investigative detention" allows an officer to temporarily detain a person for questioning. This legal concept is grounded in the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. However, the amendment does allow for brief investigative stops if an officer has a reasonable suspicion that a person is involved in criminal activity. During this time, the officer can ask questions and gather more information without the need for probable cause required for an arrest. This tactic is often used in law enforcement to quickly investigate potentially suspicious behavior while balancing individual rights.

The other choices do not accurately represent the nature of investigative detention. Conducting a full search of an individual or making an arrest without probable cause exceeds the scope of what an investigative detention allows. Additionally, issuing a ticket for minor offenses is a different legal action that does not fall under the category of investigative detention.