Hour of the stop- very late or very early. (Night time stop)
The absence of other traffic in the area leading to the isolation of the officer/trooper.
Knowledge that the area of the stop is a heightened crime area.
Highly erratic driving prior to the stop.
Additional evasive action on the part of the motorist, such as an unreasonable delay in stopping his vehicle upon being signaled to do so by the officer/trooper.
Other evasive action on the part of the driver or a passenger, including a full, unobstructed view of the driver or a passenger reaching under the seat in an attempt to grab something or hide something: ie, a "very pronounced" threatening gesture.
The occupants of the vehicle outnumbering the officer(s) present.
The plain-view observation of a weapon, ammunition or holster.
observing a large/suspicious bulge.
Absence of a driver’s license or satisfactory identification, either for the motorist or vehicle.
Lying to the police, for example, lying about a furtive movement.
Prior knowledge that the driver/occupant is armed.
Prior knowledge that the driver/occupant is a substantial dealer in narcotics.
Presence of other incriminating information about the driver/occupant.
The affirmative, reasonable statement by the investigation officer/trooper that he feared he was in danger.
Note: Some of the listed factors would justify a Terry Frisk in and of themselves. However, other factors would need to be coupled together to Justify a Terry Frisk.
*This is a guide. Certainly there are additional factors that can unfold in making a determination for a Terry Frisk. Each circumstance is unique.*
