Which of the following best describes a "pat down" in law enforcement?

A "pat down" in law enforcement refers specifically to a physical frisk conducted in a systematic manner, typically to ensure officer safety by checking for weapons or other dangerous items. This type of search is generally performed on the outer clothing of a subject, and the officer will use a predetermined pattern to ensure that they do not miss any potential threats. This method is essential for maintaining safety in an interaction, allowing officers to assess whether there are any weapons without conducting a more invasive search.

This approach is different from a thorough body search, which typically involves a more invasive process and may include checking private areas, making option A and option C inaccurate descriptions of a pat down. Option D, a visual inspection, does not encompass the tactile aspect of a pat down, which is critical for identifying potential threats that are not visible. Thus, the systematic and tactile nature of option B accurately captures the essential characteristics of a pat down in law enforcement.