Situational Judgement Flashcards

During a search, you find drugs that were not the target of the search. What should you do?

Answer: Seize the drugs, document the find, and report to your supervisor

Any evidence of criminal activity found during a lawful search must be seized and documented, even if it was not the original target of the search.

A fellow officer asks you to lie in your official report to protect them from a complaint. What do you do?

Answer: Refuse and write an accurate report

Falsifying an official report is a criminal offence and a fundamental breach of Garda integrity. You must refuse and write an accurate, truthful account.

A member of the public is verbally abusive to you but poses no physical threat. How should you respond?

Answer: Remain calm, professional, and attempt to de-escalate the situation

Professional de-escalation is always the first response to verbal aggression where there is no physical threat. Proportionality and composure are key Garda values.

You are alone and encounter a violent altercation between multiple people. What is the priority?

Answer: Call for backup immediately before intervening

Lone intervention in a multi-person violent situation is dangerous and ineffective. Calling for backup first is the priority — officer safety enables effective policing.

A road accident victim is unconscious. You have basic first aid training. What do you do?

Answer: Apply first aid within your competence, call an ambulance, and keep the victim warm and still

You must provide first aid within your training, call emergency services, and minimise further risk to the victim. Moving an unconscious accident victim risks spinal injury.

A local politician tells you to drop an investigation against a friend of theirs. What do you do?

Answer: Politely decline and continue the investigation on its merits

No political or social pressure can lawfully interfere with a Garda investigation. You must decline and continue based on evidence. Any undue pressure should also be reported.