Basic Police Terminology Flashcards
6 cards from real LAPD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Basic Police Terminology flashcards as text
In LAPD radio communications, what does the term "Code 4" signify?
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.
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?
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.
Which of the following scenarios best defines a "Hot Prowl" burglary?
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.
What is the primary purpose of an LAPD officer completing a Field Interview (FI) card or report?
Answer: To document contacts and gather intelligence for future investigations.
Field Interview (FI) cards or reports are used to document information about individuals, vehicles, and circumstances that an officer observes during patrol. This information, which may not be related to a specific crime at that moment, serves as an intelligence-gathering tool that can be crucial for solving future cases.
In law enforcement, what is the solemn meaning of the term "End of Watch" (EOW)?
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.
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?
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.