Pat down search must be conducted by personnel of the same gender as the person being searched.

• A. Same gender
• B. Opposite gender
• C. Any officer
• D. The supervisor

Answer: (A)

Pat-down searches are quick safety checks to detect concealed weapons, and they involve touching parts of the body and clothing in close proximity. Because of the privacy and dignity involved, the procedure is conducted by personnel of the same gender as the person being searched. This standard protects the individual's privacy, reduces potential discomfort or embarrassment, and helps prevent any appearance or risk of inappropriate conduct. It also supports a professional, trustworthy custody environment and aligns with how these safety checks are expected to be carried out. Choosing someone of the opposite gender would unnecessarily invade privacy and could raise concerns about misconduct, making the same-gender rule the appropriate and best practice.