Probable cause requires a reasonable belief that a crime has been, is being, or will be committed. Searching a vehicle without proper justification would violate this principle.
The "Blue Code of Silence" refers to an unwritten rule within some law enforcement circles where officers avoid reporting or testifying against fellow officers in cases of misconduct.
Sobriety checkpoints are set up to identify and arrest drivers who are operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
IA stands for Internal Affairs, which is a division within a law enforcement agency responsible for investigating and addressing allegations of misconduct by officers.
The Use of Force Continuum is a guideline that outlines the appropriate level of force that law enforcement officers can use in response to different levels of resistance or threats.
The "Fruit of the Poisonous Tree" doctrine states that evidence derived from an illegal search or seizure, or other violations of rights, is also tainted and cannot be used in court.
APB stands for "All Points Bulletin," which is a broadcast issued to alert law enforcement officers about a suspect, vehicle, or situation.
An indictment is a formal charge or accusation made by a grand jury that a person has committed a crime, based on evidence presented to them.
The Chain of Custody refers to the documented process of handling and preserving evidence to ensure its integrity and admissibility in court.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in various aspects of public life.
The Castle Doctrine allows individuals to use reasonable force, including deadly force, to protect themselves and their property within their own homes.
A K-9 unit uses specially trained dogs to assist in various law enforcement tasks, including searching for drugs, tracking suspects, and apprehending individuals.
The Freedom of Information Act allows individuals to request and access certain government records and information that are not classified or protected.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that law enforcement agencies provide equal access and accommodations for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they are not discriminated against.
A preliminary hearing is held to evaluate whether there is enough evidence to justify holding a trial for the defendant.
Community policing aims to foster better relationships between law enforcement and the community, leading to increased trust and cooperation in crime prevention.
