What authority does CPL 140.50 grant to police and court officers while on duty?

CPL 140.50 grants police and court officers the authority to stop, question, and frisk individuals on the street under certain circumstances. This authority is aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining order, allowing officers to investigate suspicious behavior while respecting individuals' rights. The stop and frisk procedure is not a random act; it requires specific reasonable suspicion that a person is engaged in criminal activity, and the frisk is only permitted if the officer has a reasonable belief that the individual may be armed and dangerous.

The ability to stop, question, and frisk serves as an important tool for law enforcement officers to prevent crime and enhance safety in their communities, while still adhering to legal standards designed to protect individuals from unlawful searches and seizures. This framework is a vital aspect of the balance between law enforcement duties and individual rights.