Who is usually designated as “Suspect #2” in a traffic stop scenario?

In a traffic stop scenario, the designation of "Suspect #2" typically refers to the passenger of the suspect vehicle. This designation arises from the understanding that during a traffic stop, there may be multiple individuals involved in the situation, and the primary focus of attention is often the driver. However, passengers can also pose a potential threat or may be involved in the suspected criminal activity, making them a point of interest for an officer conducting the stop.

Situational awareness is crucial during operations like traffic stops. If the driver is a suspect, officers need to be cautious regarding any passengers who could either assist the driver or be involved in the situation. Therefore, recognizing the passenger as "Suspect #2" allows officers to effectively manage the dynamics of the stop, ensuring that all individuals in the vehicle are monitored and assessed accordingly for officer safety and potential investigation purposes.