What should officers exercise while determining RAS?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of relying on knowledge, experience, and training when determining Reasonable Articulable Suspicion (RAS). Officers are trained to assess situations based on objective criteria and documented procedures developed through their education and professional experiences. This approach ensures that their judgments are grounded in factual circumstances and established legal standards.

When determining RAS, it is essential for officers to leverage their training to identify behaviors or circumstances that typically correlate with criminal activity. Their accumulated experience offers insights into patterns of behavior that may not be immediately evident but contribute to a well-informed decision-making process. By applying their knowledge, officers can analyze situations comprehensively and draw conclusions that adhere to legal requirements, thereby reducing the risk of discrimination or arbitrary policing.

Using personal beliefs, feelings, or biases can lead to subjective interpretations that may not align with legal standards or ethical policing practices, which is why these factors are not suitable for decision-making in the context of RAS. This structured approach ensures that enforcement actions are based on solid reasoning rather than personal inclinations.