If reasonable suspicion is based on an informant's tip, what is required?

When reasonable suspicion is based on an informant's tip, it is essential to demonstrate indicia of reliability to ensure the credibility of the information provided. The Supreme Court has established that for an informant's tip to be sufficient for reasonable suspicion, law enforcement officers must be able to show that the informant has a reliable basis for their information. This could arise from the informant's past track record of providing accurate information, the detail and specificity of the tip, or corroborating evidence from the officers' own observations.

The requirement for indicia of reliability serves to protect against arbitrary or baseless stops and searches, which are potential violations of Fourth Amendment rights. The information must not only be persuasive but must also enable officers to reasonably suspect that criminal activity is afoot, thereby justifying the stop.

The other options do not meet the established legal standards necessary in this context. Requiring the informant to present themselves or relying solely on hearsay would not provide the necessary foundation for reasonable suspicion. Additionally, asserting that no further evidence is required fails to recognize the critical importance of a reliable basis for the tip, which is fundamental in ensuring the protection of individual rights against unreasonable search and seizure.