LAPD Multiple Choice Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which sentence is written in active voice?

A knife was found at the scene.
Officer Kim completed the report. (Correct answer)
The report was completed by Officer Kim.
Evidence was collected from the vehicle.

Correct answer: Officer Kim completed the report.

In active voice, the subject performs the action; 'Officer Kim completed the report' clearly states who did what.

Question 2: Choose the correctly spelled word for a person who intentionally sets fire to property:

arsonest
aronist
arsonist (Correct answer)
arsenist

Correct answer: arsonist

Arsonist is spelled a-r-s-o-n-i-s-t, the person who commits the crime of arson.

Question 3: The term 'perpetrator' in a police report refers to:

the victim of the crime
the officer filing the report
a witness to the crime
the person who committed the crime (Correct answer)

Correct answer: the person who committed the crime

A perpetrator is the person who carries out or commits a harmful, illegal, or immoral act.

Question 4: What does 'perimeter' mean in an active police operation?

The paperwork filed after an incident
The area inside a police station
A list of witnesses at a crime scene
A boundary established to contain a scene, suspect, or hazard (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A boundary established to contain a scene, suspect, or hazard

A perimeter is a controlled boundary set up around an incident to secure the area and prevent a suspect from escaping.

Question 5: A suspect you have stopped produces an out-of-state ID. He speaks very little English and appears confused by your instructions. You should:

Use simple language, gestures, and request a language line interpreter if needed (Correct answer)
Detain him until someone who speaks his language can be found
Issue all paperwork in English since it is the official language of California
Ask a bystander who appears to speak his language to interpret

Correct answer: Use simple language, gestures, and request a language line interpreter if needed

Officers must make reasonable efforts to communicate effectively, including using interpreter services, to ensure understanding and protect rights.

Question 6: What is a 'Field Interview' (FI) in police terminology?

An interrogation of a crime suspect
A formal arrest procedure
A witness interview conducted at the station
A brief investigative stop where an officer questions a suspicious person (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A brief investigative stop where an officer questions a suspicious person

A Field Interview is a brief, non-custodial contact where an officer questions someone under suspicious circumstances.

Question 7: What does 'booking' refer to in the arrest process?

The administrative process of recording an arrest and entering the suspect into the system (Correct answer)
Transferring a suspect between facilities
Writing the initial incident report
Requesting a warrant from a judge

Correct answer: The administrative process of recording an arrest and entering the suspect into the system

Booking is the administrative procedure that officially records a suspect's arrest, including fingerprinting and photographing.

Question 8: Which type of injury is most commonly associated with running events like the 500-meter and 1.5-mile runs?

Finger dislocations during warm-up
Wrist fracture from falling
Lower-extremity overuse injuries such as shin splints and knee pain (Correct answer)
Rotator cuff tear

Correct answer: Lower-extremity overuse injuries such as shin splints and knee pain

Running events place repetitive stress on the knees, shins, and feet, making lower-extremity overuse injuries the most common risk.

Question 9: What does 'EDP' stand for in LAPD communications?

Evidence Documentation Procedure
Emotionally Disturbed Person (Correct answer)
Emergency Dispatch Protocol
Enhanced Deployment Position

Correct answer: Emotionally Disturbed Person

EDP stands for Emotionally Disturbed Person, referring to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis encountered by officers.

Question 10: What does 'NCIC' stand for and what is its purpose?

National Communications Integration Center — manages radio frequencies
National Criminal Intelligence Center — stores arrest records only
National Command and Incident Center — coordinates SWAT responses
National Crime Information Center — a nationwide database for wanted persons, stolen property, and criminal records (Correct answer)

Correct answer: National Crime Information Center — a nationwide database for wanted persons, stolen property, and criminal records

NCIC is the FBI's National Crime Information Center, a nationwide database officers use to check for warrants, stolen vehicles, and criminal histories.

Question 11: What does 'Miranda rights' require an officer to inform a suspect?

Their right to a speedy trial before arraignment
Their right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning (Correct answer)
Their right to refuse a field sobriety test
Their right to review the police report before booking

Correct answer: Their right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning

Miranda warnings, required before custodial interrogation, inform suspects of their Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights.

Question 12: Which word is spelled correctly for the legal term meaning a crime less serious than a felony?

misdemaner
misdemeanour
misdemener
misdemeanor (Correct answer)

Correct answer: misdemeanor

Misdemeanor is the American English spelling (British: misdemeanour) for a lesser criminal offense.

Question 13: An officer conducts a traffic stop for a clear moving violation. As they approach the driver's window, they see what is unmistakably a handgun resting on the passenger seat. This direct observation legally justifies an arrest and a search of the vehicle. What has the officer established?

A Terry Frisk
Probable Cause (Correct answer)
Exigent Circumstances
Reasonable Suspicion

Correct answer: Probable Cause

Probable Cause is the legal standard required for an arrest or a full search. It means there are sufficient facts and circumstances to make a reasonable person believe a crime has been committed. Seeing the handgun in plain view provides this higher level of justification, escalating the situation beyond the Reasonable Suspicion needed for the initial stop.

Question 14: Which version corrects the run-on sentence: 'The officer arrived at the scene the suspect had already fled'?

The officer arrived at the scene; the suspect had already fled. (Correct answer)
The officer arrived at the scene but however the suspect had already fled.
Arriving at the scene, the suspect had already fled.
The officer arrived at the scene, the suspect had already fled.

Correct answer: The officer arrived at the scene; the suspect had already fled.

A semicolon correctly separates two closely related independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

Question 15: In LAPD radio communications, what does the term "Code 4" signify?

No further assistance is needed; the scene is secure. (Correct answer)
A supervisor is requested to respond to the location.
An officer requires immediate, urgent assistance.
A vehicle has been reported stolen.

Correct answer: No further assistance is needed; the scene is secure.

"Code 4" is a standard and crucial radio code used by LAPD officers to indicate that a situation is under control and no more responding units are necessary. This prevents unnecessary responses and frees up resources for other calls.

Question 16: Read this passage: 'Probable cause exists when the facts and circumstances within the officer's knowledge are sufficient to warrant a reasonable person to believe that an offense has been or is being committed.' Which situation BEST meets this standard?

An officer dislikes the look of someone's car
An officer receives an anonymous tip with no corroborating evidence
An officer observes a person matching a robbery suspect description near the crime scene moments after the robbery (Correct answer)
An officer has a hunch a person is suspicious

Correct answer: An officer observes a person matching a robbery suspect description near the crime scene moments after the robbery

Matching the suspect description near the crime scene shortly after the crime provides articulable facts sufficient for probable cause.

Question 17: A robbery victim states: 'He grabbed my purse and ran. I'm pretty sure he had a gun — I saw something in his waistband.' How should this statement be classified?

Confirmed fact: the suspect was armed
Hearsay: the victim is speculating
Unconfirmed: the victim believes the suspect may have been armed (Correct answer)
Irrelevant: the victim cannot confirm a weapon was used

Correct answer: Unconfirmed: the victim believes the suspect may have been armed

The victim expresses belief based on what she saw but did not confirm a firearm, making it an unconfirmed observation.

Question 18: A police document uses the word 'acquittal.' This term means:

a formal guilty verdict by a jury
the filing of additional charges
a judge's decision to increase bail
a formal judgment that a person is not guilty (Correct answer)

Correct answer: a formal judgment that a person is not guilty

An acquittal is a formal court judgment that the defendant is not guilty of the charges.

Question 19: A witness says: 'The car was definitely blue — or maybe dark green. It was nighttime so I couldn't really tell.' How should an officer record this in a report?

Vehicle color: blue or dark green (witness uncertain due to low lighting) (Correct answer)
Vehicle color: dark colored (witness was unreliable)
Vehicle color: unknown
Vehicle color: blue

Correct answer: Vehicle color: blue or dark green (witness uncertain due to low lighting)

The report should accurately capture the witness's uncertainty and the reason for it, rather than oversimplifying or discarding the information.

Question 20: A dispatch log reads: 'Unit 7-Adam-15 responded to 415 call at 0232 hours. Unit cleared at 0318 hours. Unit 7-Adam-22 requested backup at 0310 hours.' Based on this log, which unit was available to respond to the backup request at 0310?

7-Adam-15 was still on scene and potentially available (Correct answer)
Neither unit was available
7-Adam-15 only, as they had not yet cleared
7-Adam-22, which requested its own backup

Correct answer: 7-Adam-15 was still on scene and potentially available

7-Adam-15 cleared at 0318, meaning they were still on their call at 0310 but potentially nearby and available.

Question 21: An incident report describes injuries as 'superficial.' In this context, superficial means:

deep and penetrating
life-threatening
requiring immediate surgery
affecting only the surface, not serious (Correct answer)

Correct answer: affecting only the surface, not serious

Superficial injuries are shallow and affect only the surface of the skin, not penetrating deeply.

Question 22: A suspect's statement reads: 'I was at my cousin's place all night. We watched movies until like midnight, then I slept there. I didn't leave until around 9 AM.' The crime occurred at 2:30 AM at a location 5 miles from the cousin's home. What is the significance of this statement to the investigation?

It proves the suspect is lying
It provides a potential alibi that investigators should verify (Correct answer)
It has no relevance to the investigation
It conclusively eliminates the suspect

Correct answer: It provides a potential alibi that investigators should verify

The statement is a potential alibi that must be corroborated or refuted through investigation before any conclusions can be drawn.

Question 23: Department Policy 420.1 states: 'Officers shall activate their Body Worn Video (BWV) camera prior to initiating any investigative or enforcement action involving a member of the public. If the camera is not activated, the officer must document the reason in their official report.' An officer conducts a traffic stop but only activates their BWV after they have already asked the driver for their license and registration. According to Policy 420.1, what must the officer do?

Delete the recording as it is incomplete.
Inform their supervisor immediately via radio.
Obtain a written apology from the driver.
Document the reason for the delayed activation in their report. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Document the reason for the delayed activation in their report.

The policy explicitly states that if the camera is not activated according to procedure, the officer 'must document the reason in their official report.' The other options are not mentioned in the provided text.

Question 24: What does 'plain view doctrine' allow an officer to do?

Search a residence when the door is open
Detain any person visible on a public street
Conduct a search of a vehicle without a warrant
Seize evidence or contraband that is clearly visible without a warrant (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Seize evidence or contraband that is clearly visible without a warrant

The plain view doctrine allows officers to seize evidence they can clearly see without conducting a search, as long as they are lawfully present.

Question 25: The following is from a police manual: 'Chain of custody refers to the chronological documentation of the seizure, custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence.' Why is chain of custody important?

It allows officers to handle evidence without logging it
It limits which officers can be assigned to a case
It ensures evidence integrity and admissibility in court (Correct answer)
It sets deadlines for evidence disposal

Correct answer: It ensures evidence integrity and admissibility in court

Maintaining chain of custody protects evidence integrity and ensures it can be admitted in court without challenge.

Question 26: Read the following sentence and identify which word is spelled incorrectly: 'The liutenant assigned the new recruit to traffic control duty during the parade.'

recruit
assigned
parade
liutenant (Correct answer)

Correct answer: liutenant

The word 'liutenant' is misspelled. The correct spelling for the police rank is 'lieutenant'.

Question 27: Select the correctly spelled word for unlawfully entering a building with intent to commit a crime:

burglery
burglary (Correct answer)
burglary
burglury

Correct answer: burglary

Burglary is spelled b-u-r-g-l-a-r-y, and it is a felony under California Penal Code 459.

Question 28: What is an 'APB' in law enforcement?

Active Patrol Beat
Arrest Probable Basis
Annual Police Budget
All Points Bulletin — a broadcast alert to all officers about a suspect or vehicle (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All Points Bulletin — a broadcast alert to all officers about a suspect or vehicle

An All Points Bulletin is a broadcast to all law enforcement units describing a wanted suspect or vehicle.

Question 29: What is a 'crime scene log' used for?

Tracking officer patrol hours
Recording all persons who enter and exit a secured crime scene (Correct answer)
Documenting radio communications during an incident
Listing the evidence collected from a scene

Correct answer: Recording all persons who enter and exit a secured crime scene

A crime scene log records the identity and time of entry/exit for everyone accessing a crime scene to protect evidence integrity.

Question 30: An officer's report describes a vehicle as 'stationary.' What does this mean?

traveling in the wrong direction
not moving; at a standstill (Correct answer)
moving slowly through traffic
illegally parked in a no-stop zone

Correct answer: not moving; at a standstill

Stationary (with an 'a') means not moving or fixed in one place; do not confuse with 'stationery' (writing paper).

Question 31: A general order states: 'Officers who are involved in any traffic collision while on duty, regardless of fault, must notify their supervisor immediately and complete a Department Vehicle Collision Report prior to the end of their shift.' An officer is rear-ended at a red light while on patrol. What must the officer do?

File a report only if the officer was at fault
Notify dispatch and wait for further instructions from the Watch Commander
Notify their supervisor and complete a collision report before shift ends (Correct answer)
File a report only if injuries occurred

Correct answer: Notify their supervisor and complete a collision report before shift ends

The order requires notification to the supervisor and a report regardless of fault or injury.

Question 32: What is 'modus operandi' (MO) in criminal investigation?

The timeline of events during an incident
The legal motive behind a crime
The official classification code for a crime
A suspect's particular method or pattern of committing crimes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A suspect's particular method or pattern of committing crimes

Modus operandi refers to a criminal's distinctive pattern or method of operation, used to link crimes or identify suspects.

Question 33: Evidence collected at a scene weighs 3 pounds 8 ounces. A second item weighs 1 pound 12 ounces. What is the combined weight?

4 lbs 12 oz
4 lbs 4 oz
5 lbs 4 oz (Correct answer)
5 lbs 8 oz

Correct answer: 5 lbs 4 oz

8 oz + 12 oz = 20 oz = 1 lb 4 oz; 3 + 1 + 1 = 5 lbs and 4 oz remaining.

Question 34: Which of the following words is MISSPELLED?

Surveillance
Recurrance (Correct answer)
Misdemeanor
Prevalent

Correct answer: Recurrance

The correct spelling is 'Recurrence'. The other words, 'Misdemeanor', 'Prevalent', and 'Surveillance', are all spelled correctly and are common in law enforcement vocabulary.

Question 35: A crime analysis report states: 'Residential burglaries in Division 7 increased 18% in Q2 compared to Q1, with 73% of incidents occurring between 1000 and 1400 hours on weekdays.' Which deployment strategy is MOST directly supported by this data?

Increased weekend night patrols in Division 7
Increased weekday midday patrols in Division 7 (Correct answer)
Reduced patrol staffing in Division 7 during Q3
Increased patrols in all divisions equally

Correct answer: Increased weekday midday patrols in Division 7

The data shows most burglaries occur on weekdays between 10 AM and 2 PM, making increased midday weekday patrols the most logical response.

Question 36: Read the following policy excerpt: 'Officers shall not release the name of a victim of a sexual assault to the media or public without the expressed written consent of the victim.' An officer is asked by a reporter for the victim's name in a sexual assault case. The officer should:

Refer the reporter to the Watch Commander, who can release the name
Provide the name only if the case is closed
Release the name only if the victim was not injured
Decline to release the name without the victim's written consent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Decline to release the name without the victim's written consent

Policy requires expressed written consent from the victim before releasing their name in sexual assault cases.

Question 37: In LAPD radio communications, what does the term 'Code 4' signify?

No further assistance needed, situation under control (Correct answer)
Officer needs assistance immediately
Officer is responding to a call
Suspect is in custody

Correct answer: No further assistance needed, situation under control

Code 4 means the situation is under control and no further assistance is required.

Question 38: In law enforcement, what is a 'BOLO'?

Be On the LookOut — an alert issued to officers to watch for a specific person, vehicle, or item (Correct answer)
Booking of Listed Offenders
Basic Officer Level Order
Bureau of Legal Operations

Correct answer: Be On the LookOut — an alert issued to officers to watch for a specific person, vehicle, or item

BOLO stands for 'Be On the LookOut' and alerts officers to watch for a specific suspect, vehicle, or stolen item.

Question 39: What is 'arraignment' in the criminal justice process?

A hearing to determine bail eligibility
The initial court appearance where a defendant is formally charged and enters a plea (Correct answer)
The final review before a case is dismissed
The sentencing phase after a guilty verdict

Correct answer: The initial court appearance where a defendant is formally charged and enters a plea

Arraignment is the court proceeding where a defendant is formally read their charges and asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

Question 40: Which information is essential in a documented interview report?

Only the interviewee's name and the assigned case number
The officer's conclusions about the suspect's truthfulness and credibility
A verbatim transcript with no officer observations or context notes
Date, time, location, participants, rights advisements, and substance of the exchange (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Date, time, location, participants, rights advisements, and substance of the exchange

A complete report captures logistical details, rights advisements given, all participants involved, and an accurate summary of the exchange.

Question 41: What is the primary purpose of administering the Physical Fitness Qualifier in the LAPD hiring process?

To ensure recruits can physically handle the demands of police work (Correct answer)
To replace the written examination as the sole selection tool
To identify candidates suited only for administrative roles
To rank candidates competitively by pure athletic performance

Correct answer: To ensure recruits can physically handle the demands of police work

The PFQ ensures that incoming recruits possess the baseline fitness needed to perform essential police functions safely and effectively.

Question 42: What is a 'search incident to lawful arrest'?

A search conducted at the police station after booking
A warrantless search of an arrestee and the area within their immediate control at the time of arrest (Correct answer)
A search authorized only by a supervising officer
A warrant required before searching an arrested person

Correct answer: A warrantless search of an arrestee and the area within their immediate control at the time of arrest

Search incident to lawful arrest allows officers to search an arrested person and the area within their immediate reach without a warrant.

Question 43: Which of the following statements is written in the preferred active voice for a police report?

Officer Chen apprehended the suspect at 1430 hours. (Correct answer)
The suspect was apprehended by Officer Chen at 1430 hours.
The firearm was found under the driver's seat of the vehicle.
The Miranda rights were read to the suspect.

Correct answer: Officer Chen apprehended the suspect at 1430 hours.

This sentence is in the active voice, where the subject ('Officer Chen') performs the action ('apprehended'). This is the preferred style for police reports as it clearly identifies who performed the action. The other options are in the passive voice, which can be less clear.

Question 44: Which of the following scenarios best defines a "Hot Prowl" burglary?

A series of burglaries in the same neighborhood committed by the same suspect.
A burglary where the suspect steals a vehicle from the location.
A burglary of a residence that takes place while the occupants are present inside. (Correct answer)
A burglary of a commercial business after closing hours.

Correct answer: A burglary of a residence that takes place while the occupants are present inside.

In police terminology, a "Hot Prowl" is a burglary of an occupied structure, most often a residence. This type of crime is considered particularly dangerous because of the increased potential for a violent confrontation between the suspect and the victim.

Question 45: A police report states the suspect was 'belligerent.' What does this mean?

aggressively hostile or combative (Correct answer)
intoxicated beyond control
cooperative and calm
silent and unresponsive

Correct answer: aggressively hostile or combative

Belligerent describes someone who is aggressively hostile, quarrelsome, or inclined to start fights.

Question 46: Read this passage: 'An officer may conduct a pat-down search for weapons when the officer has reasonable, articulable suspicion that the individual is armed and dangerous.' Which situation MOST justifies a pat-down under this standard?

The subject is standing in a high-crime area
The officer recognizes the subject from a previous arrest ten years ago
The subject is nervous when approached by the officer
The subject is wearing a heavy coat in warm weather and repeatedly reaches toward their waistband during questioning (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The subject is wearing a heavy coat in warm weather and repeatedly reaches toward their waistband during questioning

Wearing a heavy coat in warm weather and repeatedly reaching toward the waistband provides articulable, specific indicators of possible weapon concealment.

Question 47: You are dispatched to a burglary scene and told the suspect drove a 'dark-colored SUV.' This description is problematic because:

SUVs are too common to be useful
It lacks specifics such as make, model, shade of dark, and plate information (Correct answer)
Witnesses rarely observe vehicle types accurately
The color may appear different under artificial lighting

Correct answer: It lacks specifics such as make, model, shade of dark, and plate information

Vague descriptors like 'dark-colored' cover many vehicles and are insufficient without additional identifying details to narrow the search.

Question 48: You stop a vehicle and discover a small amount of marijuana in a state where recreational use is legal. The driver is 18, which is below the legal consumption age. What should guide your response?

Ignore it since marijuana is legal in California
Apply the law applicable to underage possession, which remains an offense (Correct answer)
Confiscate the marijuana with no further action since the amount is small
Issue a verbal warning only since prosecuting minors for marijuana is rarely worth it

Correct answer: Apply the law applicable to underage possession, which remains an offense

While adult recreational use is legal in California, underage possession of marijuana remains a legal violation subject to enforcement.

Question 49: A witness statement reads: 'I heard a loud bang, then saw two men run from the store. One wore a red jacket, the other wore a blue hoodie. They got into a white car that drove away quickly.' What is the primary purpose of this statement?

To identify the license plate of the getaway car
To describe the store layout
To provide a timeline of events following the bang (Correct answer)
To explain why the men were running

Correct answer: To provide a timeline of events following the bang

The statement primarily provides a sequence of observed events following the loud bang.

Question 50: A crime report includes: 'The victim reported the theft occurred between 0800 and 1400 hours. A neighbor observed an unfamiliar vehicle parked in the driveway at approximately 1100 hours.' What can be logically inferred from this information?

The unfamiliar vehicle may be connected to the theft (Correct answer)
The victim knows who stole the property
The neighbor committed the theft
The theft occurred at exactly 1100 hours

Correct answer: The unfamiliar vehicle may be connected to the theft

The unfamiliar vehicle was present during the theft window, making it a reasonable lead to investigate.

Question 51: The following notice is posted: 'All personnel requesting overtime must submit requests no later than 72 hours before the scheduled shift. Requests submitted after the deadline will be denied except in cases of staffing emergency declared by the Watch Commander.' An officer submits an overtime request 48 hours before the shift. What will likely happen?

The request will be denied unless a Watch Commander declares a staffing emergency (Correct answer)
The request will be approved automatically
The Watch Commander must approve all late requests
The officer must resubmit with a supervisor signature

Correct answer: The request will be denied unless a Watch Commander declares a staffing emergency

The request was submitted late, so it will be denied unless the Watch Commander declares a staffing emergency.

Question 52: Which spelling is correct for a person who gives false testimony under oath?

perjerer
perjurer (Correct answer)
purjurer
perjuror

Correct answer: perjurer

Perjurer is spelled p-e-r-j-u-r-e-r, derived from 'perjury,' the crime of lying under oath.

Question 53: In a use-of-force report, 'proportional' response means:

force determined by department policy alone
force matching the level of threat presented (Correct answer)
using lethal means as a first resort
force exceeding the threat level to ensure control

Correct answer: force matching the level of threat presented

A proportional response uses force equivalent in degree to the threat, neither excessive nor insufficient.

Question 54: In law enforcement, what is the solemn meaning of the term "End of Watch" (EOW)?

The conclusion of an officer's final shift before retirement.
A mandatory period of leave following a critical incident.
The official time a patrol shift concludes for the day.
The death of an officer in the line of duty. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The death of an officer in the line of duty.

"End of Watch" (EOW) is a revered term used to signify that an officer has died in the line of duty, marking the final end to their service. It is a declaration of honor and remembrance for their ultimate sacrifice.

Question 55: A court subpoena states: 'You are commanded to appear at the above-referenced court on the date and time specified to provide testimony regarding your personal knowledge of the incident described herein. Failure to comply may result in contempt of court.' What is the main purpose of this document?

To legally require the recipient to testify in court (Correct answer)
To inform the recipient of a pending lawsuit against them
To request a voluntary statement from the recipient
To notify the recipient of their right to remain silent

Correct answer: To legally require the recipient to testify in court

A subpoena legally compels an individual to appear and testify, as stated in the document.

Question 56: A community bulletin reads: 'The LAPD's Neighborhood Watch program is a partnership between the police and the community to reduce crime. Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to their block captain or directly to the police. The program's effectiveness relies on active participation and open communication.' What is the main idea of this passage?

Police officers are solely responsible for reducing crime.
Crime reduction is a collaborative effort between the police and residents. (Correct answer)
The Neighborhood Watch program is a mandatory activity for all residents.
Block captains have the authority to make arrests.

Correct answer: Crime reduction is a collaborative effort between the police and residents.

The passage defines the program as a 'partnership' and emphasizes that its effectiveness 'relies on active participation' from residents, highlighting the collaborative nature of the effort.

Question 57: Choose the correctly spelled word for the process of questioning a witness already examined by the opposing side:

cross-examinasion
cross-examanation
cross-examintion
cross-examination (Correct answer)

Correct answer: cross-examination

Cross-examination is spelled c-r-o-s-s-e-x-a-m-i-n-a-t-i-o-n, with 'a' before 't-i-o-n.'

Question 58: Which of the following words is defined as 'a crime, typically one involving violence, regarded as more serious than a misdemeanor, and usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death'?

Affidavit
Arraignment
Infraction
Felony (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Felony

A 'Felony' is a serious crime that carries a significant penalty. An 'Arraignment' is a court proceeding, an 'Affidavit' is a written statement under oath, and an 'Infraction' is a minor violation.

Question 59: A detective reasons: 'Most car thieves prefer older vehicles. This stolen car is new. Therefore, the thief is probably not a typical car thief.' What type of reasoning is this?

Deductive reasoning leading to a certain conclusion
Circular reasoning
Inductive reasoning leading to a probable conclusion (Correct answer)
False dilemma

Correct answer: Inductive reasoning leading to a probable conclusion

Drawing a probable conclusion from a general pattern is inductive reasoning, not deductive certainty.

Question 60: In police terminology, what is a 'CI'?

Crime Index
Civilian Inspector
Confidential Informant (Correct answer)
Critical Incident

Correct answer: Confidential Informant

A Confidential Informant is a person who provides information to law enforcement, typically under an agreement of anonymity.

Question 61: A report says: 'The suspect fled north OR east.' A camera confirms the suspect did NOT go north. What is the valid conclusion?

The suspect fled east (Correct answer)
The camera footage is unreliable
The suspect stayed in place
The suspect fled in an unknown direction

Correct answer: The suspect fled east

Disjunctive syllogism: with one option of an 'or' eliminated, the other must be true.

Question 62: Which spelling is correct for a formal charge of a serious crime?

indightment
indicment
inditement
indictment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: indictment

Indictment is spelled i-n-d-i-c-t-m-e-n-t; the 'c' is silent, making it sound like 'in-DITE-ment.'

Question 63: A department memo states: 'Effective immediately, patrol officers are prohibited from conducting solo interviews of juvenile suspects without a supervisor present, unless exigent circumstances exist.' What does the word 'exigent' most likely mean in this context?

Scheduled in advance
Urgent or requiring immediate action (Correct answer)
Routine
Requiring written approval

Correct answer: Urgent or requiring immediate action

'Exigent circumstances' in law enforcement refers to urgent situations that require immediate action.

Question 64: Select the correctly spelled word for a sworn statement made under oath outside of court:

afidavit
affidavit (Correct answer)
afidavitt
affidavitt

Correct answer: affidavit

Affidavit is spelled with double 'f': a-f-f-i-d-a-v-i-t.

Question 65: While conducting surveillance on a house, an officer is tasked with logging all vehicle and pedestrian traffic on the block for one hour. Which observation method would be most effective for ensuring accuracy and completeness?

Systematically recording each observation with a timestamp in a notebook as it occurs. (Correct answer)
Focusing intensely on the target house and ignoring all other activity on the street.
Relying solely on memory to create the log at the end of the hour.
Only noting unusual or suspicious-looking individuals and vehicles.

Correct answer: Systematically recording each observation with a timestamp in a notebook as it occurs.

Systematically recording events as they happen is the most reliable method for accurate and complete recall. Relying on memory can lead to errors and omissions, while selective logging misses potentially crucial information. The task requires logging ALL traffic, not just activity at the target house.

Question 66: An LAPD officer observes an individual in a high-crime area late at night, peering into parked car windows and trying door handles. This observation gives the officer grounds to detain and question the individual. What level of proof has the officer's observation established?

Reasonable Suspicion (Correct answer)
A Mere Hunch
Probable Cause
Conclusive Evidence

Correct answer: Reasonable Suspicion

The officer has specific and articulable facts that suggest criminal activity may be occurring. This is the definition of Reasonable Suspicion, which is the legal standard required for an officer to conduct a temporary investigative stop (a "Terry stop"). It is a lower standard than Probable Cause, which is required for an arrest.

Question 67: The phrase 'Miranda admonishment' refers to:

the warning of rights given to a suspect before questioning (Correct answer)
a written summons to appear in court
a formal apology by law enforcement
a court order restricting police conduct

Correct answer: the warning of rights given to a suspect before questioning

The Miranda admonishment (or warning) informs suspects of their rights, including the right to remain silent and to an attorney.

Question 68: The delinquent committed a misdemeanor to excede the speed limit, which resulted in two deaths. She was apprehended at the scene of the crime. Which of these terms is improperly spelled?

Delinquent
Scene
Excede (Correct answer)
Misdemeanor

Correct answer: Excede

The word "excede" is improperly spelled in the sentence. The correct spelling is "exceed," which means to go beyond the limits of something. This question tests basic spelling knowledge, identifying a common error in English vocabulary.

Question 69: A police bulletin reads: 'Be advised that the suspect is described as a male, approximately 6'2", 220 lbs, with a tattoo of an eagle on his left forearm. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous.' Which detail is NOT mentioned in the bulletin?

The suspect's weight
The suspect's height
The location of the suspect's tattoo
The suspect's hair color (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The suspect's hair color

The bulletin describes height, weight, and tattoo location, but does not mention hair color.

Question 70: An operations order states: 'Unit commanders shall ensure that all personnel under their command are briefed on any changes to the Rules of Engagement prior to deployment.' The primary responsibility described in this order rests with:

Dispatch to relay updated rules during the operation
Unit commanders to brief their personnel before deployment (Correct answer)
Individual officers to seek out briefing information on their own
Training Division to issue written updates to all officers

Correct answer: Unit commanders to brief their personnel before deployment

The order explicitly assigns responsibility to unit commanders to brief personnel prior to deployment.

Question 71: A neighborhood watch bulletin reads: 'Residents have reported a dark-colored pickup truck driving slowly through the 4500 block of Elm Drive late at night for the past three evenings. The truck has no front license plate.' What is the MOST useful piece of information for follow-up?

The truck drives slowly
The truck is dark-colored
The truck appears late at night
The truck has no front license plate (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The truck has no front license plate

Missing a front license plate is a citable violation in California and a specific, actionable detail for officers to act on.

Question 72: Which statement correctly describes a valid Miranda waiver?

It must be voluntary, knowing, and intelligent (Correct answer)
It is valid only after the suspect has consulted an attorney
It requires a neutral third-party witness to be present
It must always be in writing to be legally valid

Correct answer: It must be voluntary, knowing, and intelligent

A Miranda waiver is legally valid only when it is given voluntarily, knowingly, and intelligently by the suspect.

Question 73: Choose the correctly spelled word: the legal concept of taking someone's property without compensation.

confiscasion
confiskation
confiscation (Correct answer)
confescation

Correct answer: confiscation

Confiscation is spelled c-o-n-f-i-s-c-a-t-i-o-n, from Latin 'fiscus' meaning public treasury.

Question 74: You attend a LAPD crime scene where a detective has already interviewed the primary witness. You are asked to do a follow-up interview. The BEST approach is:

Review the detective's notes first so you can fill gaps, then conduct your interview without repeating leading questions (Correct answer)
Ask the witness to repeat everything they told the detective so you can identify inconsistencies
Begin with questions about details the detective noted were unclear
Tell the witness what the detective said they observed to confirm the account

Correct answer: Review the detective's notes first so you can fill gaps, then conduct your interview without repeating leading questions

Reviewing prior notes targets your questions toward gaps rather than repeating covered ground, while avoiding leading questions protects the witness's independent memory.

Question 75: During a Department Interview, a candidate is asked: "Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a supervisor and how you handled it." Which response best demonstrates the qualities the LAPD is seeking?

"I avoided confrontation by just doing what the supervisor said, even though I knew it was not the best way, because it's important to always follow orders without question."
"I listened to my supervisor's perspective, professionally explained my own viewpoint with supporting reasons, and ultimately respected their final decision while committing to the team's goal." (Correct answer)
"I went to my supervisor's boss to explain the situation and how my supervisor's decision was negatively impacting the team."
"I explained to my supervisor why their approach was completely wrong and eventually convinced them to do it my way, which was more efficient."

Correct answer: "I listened to my supervisor's perspective, professionally explained my own viewpoint with supporting reasons, and ultimately respected their final decision while committing to the team's goal."

This response demonstrates respect for the chain of command, strong communication skills, confidence, and the ability to be a team player. It shows the candidate can handle conflict professionally and constructively, which is a vital skill in law enforcement.

Question 76: An officer is writing a report about a suspect who was uncooperative and hostile. Which of the following words is the correct spelling for this behavior?

Belegerent
Beligerent
Belligerent (Correct answer)
Belligerant

Correct answer: Belligerent

The correct spelling is 'Belligerent,' which means hostile and aggressive. This is a common word in police reports and is frequently misspelled.

Question 77: A police precinct has 120 officers. If 15% are assigned to detective duties, how many officers are on patrol?

96
102 (Correct answer)
108
18

Correct answer: 102

15% of 120 = 18 detectives; 120 − 18 = 102 patrol officers.

Question 78: Which word is spelled correctly?

asailant
assailant (Correct answer)
assailent
assaillant

Correct answer: assailant

Assailant is spelled a-s-s-a-i-l-a-n-t, meaning a person who physically attacks another.

Question 79: Active listening during an interview is best demonstrated by:

Interrupting frequently to demonstrate engagement
Summarizing and reflecting back what the interviewee has said (Correct answer)
Taking rapid notes without making eye contact
Asking rapid-fire follow-up questions to maintain momentum

Correct answer: Summarizing and reflecting back what the interviewee has said

Reflecting and summarizing demonstrates understanding and encourages the interviewee to continue sharing information in depth.

Question 80: An officer writes: 'The suspect, who was wearing a red jacket, and carrying a backpack, fled northbound.' What is wrong with this sentence?

It uses the wrong verb tense
It lacks a subject
It uses passive voice
It has an unnecessary comma before 'and' (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It has an unnecessary comma before 'and'

The comma before 'and carrying a backpack' is incorrect because the two participial phrases form a compound and should not be separated by a comma.

LAPD Multiple Choice Test

The LAPD written entrance exam evaluates reading comprehension and English usage through four equally weighted sections: spelling, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing clarity.

Questions

150 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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