Which of the following best describes the reason for a protective sweep?

A protective sweep is a quick and limited search of a premises conducted by law enforcement officers during or immediately after an arrest. The primary objective of a protective sweep is to ensure the safety of the officers involved, as well as any individuals nearby. This procedure allows officers to check for any potential dangers, such as hidden accomplices or individuals who might pose a threat, thereby minimizing the risk to themselves and the public during the arrest.

The other options do not align with the primary objective of a protective sweep. Gathering evidence for a trial could be part of a different type of search that is more extensive and focused on recovering items related to criminal activity. Searching for large quantities of illegal substances typically requires a warrant or probable cause beyond the immediate concerns of officer safety. Confirming the identity of an arrestee might be a secondary concern during a protective sweep, but it is not the main reason for conducting one. Thus, ensuring safety during an arrest is the best description of the rationale behind a protective sweep.