What is the main responsibility of an officer when a person is stopped or detained?

The primary responsibility of an officer when a person is stopped or detained is to ensure their safety and well-being. This involves assessing the situation to minimize risks to both the individual being stopped and to the officer themselves. Maintaining a secure environment is essential during any interaction, especially as stops can sometimes escalate into confrontations. By prioritizing safety, the officer not only protects the individual but also upholds public safety standards.

In this context, while informing individuals about the law, collecting evidence, or issuing citations may be part of an officer's duties, they are secondary to the fundamental obligation to maintain safety during the encounter. Focusing on safety helps to foster trust and cooperation between the officer and the public, which is crucial in law enforcement.