Patrol Operations and Tactics Flashcards

What is the main benefit of 'directed patrol' compared to random patrol?

Answer: It focuses resources on identified high-crime areas or times

Directed patrol uses crime data to concentrate efforts where and when crime is most likely.

When approaching a suspicious person on foot, an officer should position themselves to:

Answer: Maintain a bladed stance and reactionary gap

A bladed stance and proper distance protect the officer's weapon side and allow time to react.

What is the primary reason officers conduct a protective sweep after an arrest inside a residence?

Answer: To check for other persons who could pose a danger

A protective sweep is a limited check for hidden persons who might threaten officer safety, not an evidentiary search.

During a traffic stop, why might an officer touch the rear of the stopped vehicle while approaching?

Answer: To leave fingerprints in case the vehicle flees and the officer is harmed

Touching the trunk leaves physical evidence linking the officer to the vehicle if something goes wrong.

What should an officer do when their patrol vehicle is being followed or boxed in by a suspicious vehicle?

Answer: Notify dispatch, maintain awareness, and avoid being trapped

Reporting the situation and keeping escape options open protects the officer from ambush.

The 'OODA loop' (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) is used in tactics to:

Answer: Describe the decision-making cycle for reacting faster than an adversary

The OODA loop describes the cognitive cycle officers use to make and execute decisions quickly under stress.

When patrolling alleys or confined spaces in a vehicle, the greatest risk an officer must consider is:

Answer: Becoming trapped with no escape route or cover

Confined areas can trap a patrol vehicle, leaving the officer exposed without an exit or cover.