If during the pat-down for weapons the officer feels a weapon on the individual, the officer then has probable cause to conduct a complete search.

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During a pat-down (also known as a Terry stop), if an officer feels what they reasonably believe to be a weapon, they have not only the right but also the duty to seize the weapon for officer safety. This action is supported by the "plain feel" doctrine, which allows officers to seize contraband or evidence of a crime without a warrant if it is immediately apparent as such during a lawful search. The initial pat-down is for weapons for officer safety, and feeling a weapon provides both the probable cause and exigent circumstances necessary for a more thorough search to ensure no other weapons are present.

If During the Pat-Down for Weapons the Officer Feels a Weapon