What is the definition of a frisk?

A frisk is defined as a search that is limited to the suspect's outer layer of clothing. This type of search is typically conducted when law enforcement officers have a reasonable suspicion that a person may be armed and dangerous. The purpose of the frisk is to ensure officer safety and is generally focused on detecting weapons, rather than conducting a thorough search for evidence or contraband.

This definition aligns with the legal principles governing stop-and-frisk situations, where the Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures come into play. Officers are permitted to pat down the exterior of a person's clothing, primarily to check for weapons that could pose a threat.

The other provided options involve scenarios that do not accurately represent the specific nature of a frisk. A physical restraint of a suspect's arms pertains to control techniques rather than a search. An exhaustive search for drugs or weapons implies a more detailed examination that extends beyond the outer clothing, which is not consistent with the definition of a frisk. A detailed investigation of personal belongings suggests an invasive search of an individual's property, which exceeds the scope of what a frisk entails. By understanding the context of each choice, the distinction becomes clear that a frisk is indeed focused on the outer layer of clothing to ensure safety.