In which circumstance is frisking typically initiated?

Frisking is typically initiated when a law enforcement officer suspects the presence of a weapon on a person. This procedure is grounded in the need to ensure officer safety during a stop, particularly when there is a reasonable suspicion that the individual may be armed and dangerous. The legal basis for this action comes from the Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, which established that an officer may conduct a limited search for weapons, known as a "Terry frisk," if they have specific, articulable facts that lead them to believe a weapon could be present.

The other options do not meet the legal threshold required for conducting a frisk. Relying solely on instinct is not a valid reason without any specific observations to support the suspicion. Similarly, while the presence of a threatening individual may raise concerns, it does not automatically validate a frisk unless there is a specific suspicion of a weapon. Lastly, while obtaining consent can permit an officer to conduct a search, it isn't the primary context in which a frisk is initiated; rather, a frisk is typically justified by the suspicion of weapon possession without needing explicit consent.