What is the primary purpose of a protective sweep?

The primary purpose of a protective sweep is to conduct a quick and limited search of a premises incident to an arrest. This procedure is grounded in the need to ensure the safety of law enforcement officers and individuals present during an arrest. When officers encounter situations where there may be a risk of hidden threats, such as other individuals who might pose a danger, a protective sweep allows them to secure the environment without conducting a full search, which requires a higher level of justification.

This limited search focuses on areas in which persons may be hiding, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with unexpected encounters during law enforcement actions. The protective sweep is justified under the Fourth Amendment as an exception to the warrant requirement, provided that officers have a reasonable belief that there could be individuals who may harm them. The necessity of ensuring safety and controlling the situation is paramount during the dynamics of making an arrest. In this context, the procedure is not intended for gathering evidence or searching for stolen property, but strictly to protect officers and other individuals involved.