Which option best describes the second officer's role in a high-risk traffic stop?

In a high-risk traffic stop, the primary responsibility of the second officer is to provide backup and cover for the primary officer. This role is crucial for ensuring the safety of both officers and the public, especially in situations that may involve potential threats or violent encounters. The second officer's presence allows for a more controlled environment, enabling the primary officer to focus on the suspect while ensuring they are protected from potential ambushes or unexpected actions from the vehicle occupants or surrounding individuals.

Providing backup can involve positioning the second officer in a tactical location to observe the situation from another angle, helping to cover the primary officer during the stop and assisting in any necessary apprehension of suspects. This collaborative approach is essential in high-risk situations.

Other roles mentioned, such as initiating pursuit, issuing citations, or completing paperwork, do not accurately reflect the immediate and vital need for support and safety that the second officer must prioritize during a high-risk traffic stop.