What is a frisk limited to checking for?

A frisk is a limited pat-down procedure that law enforcement personnel perform to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. The primary focus of a frisk is specifically on weapons. When an officer conducts a frisk, they are searching for items that could potentially be used to harm themselves or others, thus prioritizing the need to neutralize any immediate threats.

The procedure is intended to be minimally intrusive, allowing officers to quickly assess whether an individual is carrying a weapon without delving into a search for other items such as evidence, contraband, or for confirming identity. This is consistent with the legal standards governing the use of common police tactics during stops when there is reasonable suspicion of a crime, particularly involving concerns for officer safety. The strict limitation to checking for weapons ensures that a frisk remains a focused and legitimate action within the boundaries of constitutional rights.