In which situation is an officer justified in handcuffing a detainee during an investigatory stop?

An officer is justified in handcuffing a detainee during an investigatory stop primarily when there is reasonable suspicion of aggressive crime. This is because reasonable suspicion allows law enforcement to take measures that ensure their safety and the safety of others while they investigate potential criminal activity. In situations where there is an indication that the suspect may be armed, dangerous, or likely to flee, handcuffing enhances safety for both the officer and the public.

In contrast, simply being present does not provide a legal basis for handcuffing, as this would violate the individual’s rights without just cause. Similarly, while a lack of cooperation from a detainee can raise concerns, it does not automatically justify the use of handcuffs unless paired with reasonable suspicion of a more severe threat to safety. Thus, the most compelling rationale for using handcuffs during an investigatory stop is when there is credible suspicion of aggressive crime, which aligns with maintaining a secure environment for the investigation process.