What type of suspicion is described as a mere hunch or feeling of intuition?

The correct answer refers to a level of suspicion known as "mere suspicion," which is characterized by an officer's instinctive feeling or gut feeling about a situation without any reliable information or corroborating evidence. This type of suspicion does not meet the legal standard required for an officer to take action, such as stopping or detaining a person. It's important to recognize that mere suspicion is not sufficient to justify any search, arrest, or other law enforcement action.

In contrast, "reasonable suspicion" is a higher standard that requires specific facts or circumstances that lead a law enforcement officer to believe that a person is involved in criminal activity. This is a more defined standard based on observable behavior or information, rather than just an instinct.

"Probable cause" is an even higher legal standard, necessary for obtaining a warrant or making an arrest, which requires concrete evidence that a crime has been committed or is being committed. "Criminal suspicion" isn't a commonly recognized legal term and isn't used to describe a standard in arrest, search, and seizure scenarios.

Understanding these distinctions is critical for law enforcement professionals because actions taken without the appropriate level of suspicion may lead to legal challenges or violations of individual rights.