New York Law (NYLE) Practice Exam

Which of the following actions is NOT considered a form of police intrusion?

1. Stop and request information

2. Stop and chat

3. Stop and interrogate

4. Stop and frisk

The correct answer is: Stop and chat

The correct selection signifies an action that is generally viewed as less intrusive and therefore does not constitute a form of police intrusion. Specifically, the act of stopping and chatting with someone usually implies an informal interaction. It is not designed to compel the person to provide information or engage in a more formal interaction that would suggest a level of authority or coercion. In contrast, the other actions are associated with various levels of police authority and can significantly impact an individual's freedom of movement and privacy. For instance, stopping and requesting information may involve a demand for personal details, which can be perceived as intrusive. Likewise, stopping and interrogating suggests a more intense level of questioning, often implying suspicion and potential escalation. Finally, stop and frisk includes a physical search, which represents a serious invasion of privacy and has specific legal requirements to avoid violating an individual's rights. Therefore, "stop and chat" stands out as the least invasive action and is typically viewed as a voluntary and consensual interaction without the overtones of authority or pressure associated with the other options.