Answer :
Final answer:
The level of proof required for a Terry stop is reasonable suspicion, not probable cause, clear and convincing evidence, or beyond a reasonable doubt.
Explanation:
The level of proof needed to conduct a Terry stop is reasonable suspicion. This standard comes from the landmark Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, which allows police to stop and frisk individuals if they have a reasonable suspicion that the person has committed or is about to commit a crime. In contrast, probable cause is necessary for obtaining a search or arrest warrant and is a higher threshold than reasonable suspicion. The standard of clear and convincing evidence is higher than both reasonable suspicion and probable cause and is used in certain civil cases. The highest standard, beyond a reasonable doubt, is used in criminal trials to convict an accused individual.
