Stop-and-frisk policy

The Stop-and-Frisk policy is a police practice where officers stop individuals in public spaces to question them and search for weapons or illegal items, based on reasonable suspicion that they might be involved in criminal activity. It gained prominence in cities like New York to address crime concerns. However, it has been controversial, as critics argue it disproportionately targets racial and ethnic minorities, leading to claims of racial profiling and violation of civil rights. Supporters believe it can enhance public safety by preventing crime before it occurs. Balancing safety and rights remains a significant concern in discussions about this policy.