MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What constitutes reasonable suspicion according to Illinois v. Wardlow?

1. Walking slowly away from the police

2. Unprovoked flight from a high crime area

3. Having a criminal record

4. Suddenly changing direction while walking

The correct answer is: Unprovoked flight from a high crime area

In the context of Illinois v. Wardlow, the concept of reasonable suspicion is illustrated by the idea that certain behaviors can lead police officers to have a particularized and objective basis for suspecting an individual of criminal activity. The behavior of unprovoked flight in a high crime area is a significant factor in determining reasonable suspicion. In the case, the Supreme Court highlighted that when a person flees upon noticing law enforcement officers in a location that is known for high levels of criminal activity, this reaction can cause officers to reasonably suspect that the individual may be involved in illegal activities. In this scenario, the flight is not just any type of reaction, but an unprovoked one, which adds to the officers' concern for safety and potential criminal behavior. Other behaviors listed do not inherently provide the same level of reasonable suspicion. Walking slowly away from police, for example, does not signal the same level of concern as fleeing in a high-crime area, nor does merely having a criminal record or suddenly changing direction while walking provide sufficient context or indications of criminal activity on their own. The combination of elements present in unprovoked flight from a high crime area provides a clearer basis for reasonable suspicion and justifies further investigation by law enforcement.