What is the primary purpose of a frisk?

The primary purpose of a frisk is a limited search for weapons on the outer clothing. This technique is used by law enforcement officers when they have reasonable suspicion that a person may be armed and dangerous. During a frisk, officers are allowed to run their hands over the suspect's outer clothing to detect the presence of any weapons. The aim is to ensure the safety of both the officer and others nearby.

This practice is based on the need to balance an individual's right to personal security with the need for law enforcement to ensure public safety. It's important to highlight that a frisk does not involve a full-body search or detailed examination of personal belongings; it is specifically focused on identifying potential threats such as firearms or other weapons.