MBE Rules · Criminal Procedure
Terry frisk — limits vs full search
Terry / Dickerson / Long
The rule
A Terry frisk is limited to a pat-down of outer clothing for weapons based on reasonable suspicion the suspect is armed and dangerous; it is not a search for evidence. Officers may seize non-weapon contraband only if its incriminating character is immediately apparent from plain feel (Dickerson). A frisk of the passenger compartment of a vehicle (Long) is limited to areas where a weapon could be placed or hidden.
In plain English
The frisk is a safety measure, not an evidence hunt. Manipulating a lump in a pocket to determine what it is exceeds Terry.
The trap
Confusing 'plain feel' with 'plain view' — plain feel requires immediate recognition without manipulation.
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