National Criminal Justice Officer Selection Inventory (NCJOSI2) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'Officer Diaz is on patrol and observes two teenagers on a street corner. As his car approaches, they exchange a small plastic bag for cash. When the teenagers see his patrol car, they immediately walk away in opposite directions.'

A report of two suspicious persons.
Two friends are exchanging money.
Two teenagers are loitering on a street corner.
An observation of a probable narcotics transaction. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An observation of a probable narcotics transaction.

The officer witnessed actions that are highly indicative of a street-level narcotics transaction: the exchange of a small bag for cash and the evasive behavior upon seeing law enforcement. This observation forms the basis of the problem, which is a likely illegal drug deal.

Question 2: Place the following events of a foot pursuit in the correct chronological order. (1) The suspect ignored my commands and began running. (2) I observed an individual matching the description of a robbery suspect. (3) After a brief chase, I apprehended the suspect and placed him in custody. (4) I exited my vehicle and ordered the individual to stop.

4, 1, 2, 3
2, 4, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
2, 1, 4, 3
1, 2, 4, 3

Correct answer: 2, 4, 1, 3

The sequence starts with the initial observation of the suspect. This is followed by the officer's action of making contact, the suspect's reaction of fleeing, and the final outcome of the pursuit and apprehension.

Question 3: Place the following steps for processing a crime scene in the most logical order. (1) Photograph the scene in its original state. (2) Secure the perimeter and establish a single point of entry/exit. (3) Collect and package all items of evidentiary value. (4) Conduct a systematic search for evidence.

1, 2, 4, 3
3, 4, 1, 2
2, 4, 1, 3
2, 1, 4, 3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2, 1, 4, 3

The first priority at any crime scene is to secure it to prevent contamination. Next, the scene must be documented (photographed) before anything is moved. Then, a search is conducted, and finally, evidence is collected.

Question 4: Rule: All off-duty officers must secure their service weapon in a locked container when not in their immediate possession. Scenario: Officer Miller is at home watching television in his living room. His service weapon is on the nightstand in his bedroom.

Officer Miller is in compliance because he is in his own home.
There is not enough information to determine if a violation occurred.
Officer Miller is in violation of the rule. (Correct answer)
Officer Miller is in compliance because the weapon is on private property.

Correct answer: Officer Miller is in violation of the rule.

The weapon is not in Officer Miller's immediate possession, as it is in a different room. According to the rule, it must therefore be secured in a locked container, which it is not. This constitutes a violation of the rule.

Question 5: During foot patrol, you notice a broken window in a business that was intact on your previous patrol. What should you do FIRST?

Contact the business owner before calling for backup
Wait until your shift ends and include it in your daily report
Ask a nearby bystander if they saw anything before documenting it
Immediately note the time, location, and condition before taking further action (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Immediately note the time, location, and condition before taking further action

Immediately documenting the time, location, and condition establishes the factual baseline needed for any subsequent investigation or report.

Question 6: Who is responsible for starting the chain of custody form for a piece of evidence? Policy 401.5 Excerpt: All collected evidence must be immediately secured by the collecting officer. All items must be logged into the evidence tracking system. The chain of custody form must be initiated by the collecting officer and signed by every individual who subsequently handles the evidence.

The on-duty Shift Supervisor.
The first officer to sign the log book.
The Evidence Custodian.
The collecting officer. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The collecting officer.

The policy explicitly states that the chain of custody form 'must be initiated by the collecting officer.' This places the initial responsibility for documentation on the officer who first recovered the evidence.

Question 7: An officer responds to a burglary. Which observation from the scene would be LEAST useful in a follow-up investigation?

The specific items reported missing
Any footprints or tool marks left behind
The point of entry used by the burglar
Whether the weather was cold that day (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Whether the weather was cold that day

Weather conditions are rarely relevant to a burglary investigation unless they directly affected physical evidence such as footprints in snow.

Question 8: Which of the following is a complete and correctly punctuated sentence?

I arrived on the scene, and I saw the suspect fleeing. (Correct answer)
The suspect fled I gave chase.
After I arrived on scene, I saw the suspect, he was fleeing.
Arrived on scene to find the suspect.

Correct answer: I arrived on the scene, and I saw the suspect fleeing.

This is a complete sentence with a subject ('I') and a verb ('arrived', 'saw'). The comma correctly separates the two independent clauses joined by the conjunction 'and'. The other options are a run-on sentence, a fragment, and have incorrect comma usage.

Question 9: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'Officer Miller responded to 125 Maple Ave. The homeowner, Mr. Jones, stated that his neighbor's large dog has been getting into his yard and digging up his garden. Mr. Jones has spoken to the neighbor, who apologized but has not fixed the broken fence panel the dog is using to get through.'

A report of a potentially dangerous animal.
A dog is digging in a garden.
A simple violation of a local leash law.
An ongoing neighbor dispute over an unsecured animal and property damage. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An ongoing neighbor dispute over an unsecured animal and property damage.

The core issue is not just the dog's behavior but the neighbor's failure to correct the problem that allows it to happen (the broken fence). This makes it a recurring civil issue between neighbors over property damage and animal control. The officer's role would be to address this ongoing, unresolved dispute.

Question 10: Reference Chart: A bar chart shows arrests by shift for the first quarter: Day Shift - 120 arrests, Evening Shift - 150 arrests, Night Shift - 90 arrests. What was the total number of arrests made across all three shifts?

330
360 (Correct answer)
270
390

Correct answer: 360

To find the total number of arrests, you must add the number of arrests from each shift together. The calculation is 120 (Day) + 150 (Evening) + 90 (Night), which equals 360.

Question 11: Arrange the sentences to describe a logical response to a dispatch call. (1) I interviewed both parties separately to get their statements. (2) I was dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance. (3) Upon arrival, I separated the two individuals involved. (4) I submitted my report detailing the incident.

1, 3, 2, 4
3, 2, 1, 4
2, 1, 3, 4
2, 3, 1, 4 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2, 3, 1, 4

The sequence begins with receiving the call, followed by arriving and taking immediate action to de-escalate (separating parties). Then, the investigation (interviewing) takes place, and the final step is documentation (filing the report).

Question 12: An officer observes that a vehicle has been parked in the same location for three days. What is the MOST important detail to document?

The color of the vehicle
The vehicle's license plate and any changes in its appearance (Correct answer)
Whether the vehicle is clean or dirty
How many times the officer drove past it

Correct answer: The vehicle's license plate and any changes in its appearance

Documenting the license plate and any changes in appearance creates an official record and enables investigators to check the vehicle's registration and owner.

Question 13: You are a police officer responding to a noise complaint. When you arrive, the residents are agitated and uncooperative. What should you do?

Demand compliance using a firm tone.
Calmly explain the reason for your visit and listen to their concerns. (Correct answer)
Threaten to arrest them if they don’t comply.
Leave the scene and report the issue later.

Correct answer: Calmly explain the reason for your visit and listen to their concerns.

Police officers have a duty to intervene and report any misconduct, especially the use of excessive force. Ignoring such behavior or waiting to address it privately compromises ethical standards and accountability within the force. Immediate intervention protects the suspect and upholds the integrity of law enforcement.

Question 14: Look at this series: 90, 83, 77, 72, 68, __. What number should come next?

65 (Correct answer)
64
66
63

Correct answer: 65

The pattern is to subtract a sequentially decreasing number from each term. First, 7 is subtracted (90-7=83), then 6 is subtracted (83-6=77), then 5 (77-5=72), then 4 (72-4=68). The next step is to subtract 3, so 68-3=65.

Question 15: An officer stops a vehicle and observes the driver appears nervous, avoids eye contact, and has an air freshener hanging from the mirror. Taken together, these observations MOST likely suggest:

The driver is experiencing a medical emergency
The vehicle was recently purchased
The driver is unfamiliar with the area
The driver may be attempting to conceal contraband (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The driver may be attempting to conceal contraband

Nervousness, avoidance of eye contact, and use of air fresheners are recognized behavioral and environmental indicators that, in combination, may suggest an attempt to conceal contraband.

Question 16: A community reports increased car break-ins at night. What is the first step in solving this problem?

Install cameras without notifying residents
Assume it is a common occurrence and take no action
Arrest anyone acting suspiciously in the area
Increase patrols and monitor the area for unusual activity (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Increase patrols and monitor the area for unusual activity

The first step in addressing increased car break-ins is to gather information and establish a visible presence. Increasing patrols and monitoring the area allows officers to observe patterns, identify suspicious activity, and potentially deter criminals. This proactive approach helps in understanding the problem before implementing more drastic measures like arrests or camera installations.

Question 17: When recalling details from a crime scene, which memory technique is most effective?

Focusing exclusively on the center of the scene
Using a systematic scan from one area to another (Correct answer)
Memorizing only the most unusual items
Recalling only what seems relevant at the time

Correct answer: Using a systematic scan from one area to another

A systematic scanning technique ensures all areas are observed in an organized way, reducing the likelihood of overlooking critical details.

Question 18: An officer uses the 'link' memory technique to recall five witnesses by creating a mental story that connects them. This technique works primarily because:

It organizes separate pieces of information into a narrative that is easier to recall (Correct answer)
It reduces the total number of details the officer must remember
It creates an official record that can be used in court
It focuses the officer only on the most important individuals

Correct answer: It organizes separate pieces of information into a narrative that is easier to recall

The link technique organizes disconnected information into a connected narrative, making each element easier to retrieve through associative recall.

Question 19: Which sentence contains a spelling error?

The incident occured at approximately 2200 hours. (Correct answer)
The suspect gave a separate statement to the detective.
It is necessary to follow proper procedure.
The witness was embarrassed by the situation.

Correct answer: The incident occured at approximately 2200 hours.

The word 'occurred' is misspelled as 'occured'. This is a common error; words ending in a consonant-vowel-consonant pattern often double the final consonant when a suffix is added.

Question 20: You are offered a small gift by a grateful citizen after assisting them. What should you do?

Politely decline and explain that you are not allowed to accept gifts. (Correct answer)
Accept it if the value is less than $10.
Refer them to your supervisor for approval.
Accept it to show appreciation for their gratitude.

Correct answer: Politely decline and explain that you are not allowed to accept gifts.

Law enforcement officers are typically prohibited from accepting gifts, even small ones, to avoid any appearance of impropriety, favoritism, or potential for bribery. Politely declining and explaining this policy maintains transparency and upholds the ethical standards of the profession. This practice ensures public trust and prevents conflicts of interest.

Question 21: What is the first action an officer must take after noticing a potential break in the chain of custody for a piece of evidence? Policy 401.5 Excerpt: The chain of custody form must be initiated by the collecting officer and signed by every individual who subsequently handles the evidence. Access to the main evidence locker is restricted. Any suspected breach in the chain of custody must be reported to the Shift Supervisor immediately for documentation.

Report it to the Shift Supervisor. (Correct answer)
Wait until the end of the shift to file a report.
Correct the form themselves.
Discard the evidence.

Correct answer: Report it to the Shift Supervisor.

The policy provides a clear directive for this situation. Any suspected breach must be reported to the Shift Supervisor immediately to ensure it is properly documented and investigated.

Question 22: Which of the following is NOT considered a defense to a criminal charge?

Insanity
Self-defense
Voluntary intoxication (Correct answer)
Entrapment

Correct answer: Voluntary intoxication

Voluntary intoxication is generally not considered a valid defense to a criminal charge because it is a self-induced state. While it might negate specific intent for some crimes, it typically does not excuse criminal behavior. Defenses like self-defense, entrapment, and insanity, however, argue that the defendant lacked culpability or acted under specific circumstances that justify their actions.

Question 23: Using the same incident report table, how many more theft incidents were reported in March than in February?

7
24
14 (Correct answer)
12

Correct answer: 14

First, find the number of theft incidents for March (52) and February (38). Then, subtract the February value from the March value to find the difference: 52 - 38 = 14.

Question 24: Which sentence is the most clear and concise for a report?

The victim was spoken to by me in the kitchen area.
At that point in time, I proceeded to interview the victim inside the kitchen.
I spoke with the victim in the kitchen. (Correct answer)
I made contact with the victim who was located in the vicinity of the kitchen.

Correct answer: I spoke with the victim in the kitchen.

This sentence is direct and uses simple, unambiguous language. The other options are wordy, use police jargon ('made contact with'), or are phrased in a passive, less clear manner.

Question 25: Which of the following sentences is the most clearly written and grammatically correct for an incident report?

I made contact with the driver, who advised me he was unable to locate his license.
The vehicles driver couldn't find his drivers license.
The driver of the vehicle was unable to provide a driver's license. (Correct answer)
The driver of the vehicle were unable to provide a drivers license.

Correct answer: The driver of the vehicle was unable to provide a driver's license.

This sentence is the most professional and clear. It uses correct subject-verb agreement ('driver was'), avoids jargon, and is concise. The other options contain errors in agreement, spelling, or clarity.

Question 26: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'Dispatch received a call from a woman who stated a man in a blue van has been parked across the street from a local elementary school for the past hour. The man has not exited the vehicle. School is scheduled to be dismissed in 30 minutes, and the caller is concerned.'

A report of a suspicious vehicle/person requiring a welfare check. (Correct answer)
A routine traffic complaint.
A potential kidnapping that is already in progress.
A vehicle is illegally parked near a school.

Correct answer: A report of a suspicious vehicle/person requiring a welfare check.

The central problem is the presence of an unknown individual in a vehicle near a school, which is perceived as suspicious behavior. The context (near a school, close to dismissal time) elevates this from a simple parking complaint to a potential threat that requires an immediate welfare check by an officer.

Question 27: Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct?

The officers who were on scene secured the perimeter. (Correct answer)
The team of officers were the first to arrive.
Each of the suspects have a criminal record.
The witness, as well as the victim, were transported to the station.

Correct answer: The officers who were on scene secured the perimeter.

This sentence correctly uses the plural subject 'officers' with the plural verb 'were'. It also correctly uses the pronoun 'who' to refer to the officers. The other options have subject-verb agreement errors or incorrect pronoun usage.

Question 28: An officer collects evidence at 3:00 PM and their shift ends at 11:00 PM. According to Policy 401.5, when is the latest the evidence must be logged into the tracking system? Policy 401.5 Excerpt: All collected evidence must be immediately secured by the collecting officer. Biological evidence must be packaged in breathable paper bags. All items must be logged into the evidence tracking system before the end of the officer's shift. The chain of custody form must be initiated by the collecting officer.

Within one hour of collection.
Immediately upon collection.
Before the end of the officer's shift. (Correct answer)
Within 24 hours of collection.

Correct answer: Before the end of the officer's shift.

The policy mandates that all evidence items must be logged into the system 'before the end of the officer's shift.' This ensures timely documentation and accountability for all collected items.

Question 29: What is the primary direction of travel when going from the Park to the Courthouse?

Northwest
Southwest
Northeast (Correct answer)
Southeast

Correct answer: Northeast

The Park is at Oak Ave & 3rd St. The Courthouse is at Maple St & 2nd St. To get there, one must travel north (from 3rd to 2nd St) and east (from Oak to Maple Ave). This combined direction is northeast.

Question 30: A radio broadcast describes a suspect as: 'Male, approximately 6 feet tall, blue hoodie, jeans, carrying a black backpack, heading north on Main Street.' Which detail should you prioritize when scanning a crowd?

The black backpack (Correct answer)
Hair color
That the suspect is male
Approximate height

Correct answer: The black backpack

The black backpack is the most distinctive and visible item that sets this suspect apart from other males of similar height in a crowd.

Question 31: A detective notes that in five recent home burglaries, the suspect only stole prescription medication and small, high-value electronics like phones and tablets. The burglaries all occurred in the early afternoon, and entry was gained by prying open a rear window. Which conclusion is most supported by this pattern?

The suspect is a professional cat burglar who is difficult to catch.
The burglaries are committed by teenagers looking for random items.
The city is experiencing a random increase in property crime.
The suspect is likely stealing items that are easily pawned or sold for cash. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The suspect is likely stealing items that are easily pawned or sold for cash.

The specific pattern of items stolen (prescription drugs and small electronics) suggests the suspect is targeting items that are easy to carry and sell quickly, possibly to fund a drug habit. The consistent method of entry and time of day further strengthen the conclusion that the crimes are linked and committed by the same person or group.

Question 32: Which term refers to the intent to commit a crime?

Mens rea (Correct answer)
Actus reus
Stare decisis
Habeas corpus

Correct answer: Mens rea

Mens rea is a Latin term meaning 'guilty mind,' and it refers to the mental state or intent required for a crime to have been committed. For most criminal offenses, both an act (actus reus) and a culpable mental state (mens rea) must be present. This distinguishes accidental harm from intentional criminal behavior, making intent a crucial element in criminal law.

Question 33: What is the cornerstone of professionalism in law enforcement?

Adhering to ethical standards and codes of conduct (Correct answer)
Following personal moral beliefs
Maintaining strict authority over the public
Physical fitness

Correct answer: Adhering to ethical standards and codes of conduct

Adhering to ethical standards and codes of conduct is the cornerstone of professionalism in law enforcement. This ensures that officers act with integrity, fairness, and accountability, building public trust and upholding the law impartially. While physical fitness and authority are important, they must be guided by a strong ethical framework to maintain public confidence and legitimacy.

Question 34: Reference Table: Monthly Incident Reports Type | Jan | Feb | Mar Theft | 45 | 38 | 52 Assault | 22 | 25 | 20 Vandalism | 30 | 35 | 28 Traffic | 60 | 55 | 65 According to the table, what was the total number of incidents reported in January?

153
157 (Correct answer)
165
155

Correct answer: 157

To find the total for January, you must sum all the values in the 'Jan' column. The calculation is 45 (Theft) + 22 (Assault) + 30 (Vandalism) + 60 (Traffic), which equals 157.

Question 35: Over the last six months, an officer has noticed a trend of car break-ins in the mall parking lot. In almost every case, the break-in occurred between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM on a Saturday, and the stolen items were shopping bags left visible on the car seat. What is the most logical conclusion?

All car break-ins in the city are on the rise.
The mall has poor security in general.
A specific pattern of theft is targeting shoppers on Saturday afternoons. (Correct answer)
The break-ins are random and unrelated.

Correct answer: A specific pattern of theft is targeting shoppers on Saturday afternoons.

The specific details (location, day, time, and target) form a clear pattern. This allows for the general conclusion that one or more thieves are specifically targeting shoppers who leave their purchases visible in their cars during peak shopping hours on Saturdays.

Question 36: When recalling a sequence of events at a crime scene, which approach best supports accurate memory?

Recall events in the order they seem most important
Recall events in the chronological order they occurred (Correct answer)
Focus only on the final event in the sequence
Only recall events you personally witnessed

Correct answer: Recall events in the chronological order they occurred

Recalling events chronologically maintains the integrity of the sequence, reduces errors, and produces reports that accurately reflect what happened.

Question 37: An officer is driving south on Elm St and makes a left turn onto 2nd St. Which direction is the officer now traveling?

West
South
North
East (Correct answer)

Correct answer: East

The map's orientation has north at the top. When traveling south (down), a left turn will always be towards the east (right side of the map). Therefore, the officer is now traveling east.

Question 38: After viewing a suspect description for 30 seconds, which detail is MOST critical to remember for officer safety?

Whether the suspect is armed (Correct answer)
Eye color
Clothing brand
Hair color

Correct answer: Whether the suspect is armed

Whether a suspect is armed is the most critical detail because it poses the most immediate danger to responding officers.

Question 39: Rule: An officer may only make a warrantless arrest for a misdemeanor if the offense was committed in the officer's presence. Scenario: An officer arrives at a scene where two drivers are arguing. Driver A claims Driver B ran a red light and hit him. Driver B claims Driver A was speeding. The officer did not witness the accident.

The officer can arrest Driver B based on Driver A's statement.
The officer cannot make a warrantless arrest for the traffic offense. (Correct answer)
The officer can arrest both drivers for disorderly conduct.
The officer must arrest the driver who is determined to be at fault.

Correct answer: The officer cannot make a warrantless arrest for the traffic offense.

Running a red light is a misdemeanor traffic offense. Since the officer did not personally witness the alleged offense, they cannot make a warrantless arrest based on the rule provided. The officer can investigate and issue citations, but not arrest on-scene for the misdemeanor.

Question 40: Reference Map: North-South streets are Oak Ave, Maple St, and Elm St (from west to east). East-West streets are 1st St, 2nd St, and 3rd St (from north to south). The Police Station is at Oak Ave & 1st St. The Courthouse is at Maple St & 2nd St. The Bank is at Elm St & 3rd St. The Park is at Oak Ave & 3rd St. What is the most direct driving route from the Police Station to the Bank?

East on 1st St to Maple St, then south on Maple St to 3rd St.
South on Maple St to 3rd St, then west on 3rd St to Oak Ave.
East on 1st St to Elm St, then south on Elm St to 3rd St. (Correct answer)
South on Oak Ave to 2nd St, then east on 2nd St to Elm St, then south on Elm St to 3rd St.

Correct answer: East on 1st St to Elm St, then south on Elm St to 3rd St.

The Police Station is at the northwest corner (Oak & 1st) and the Bank is at the southeast corner (Elm & 3rd). The most direct route involves traveling two blocks east and two blocks south. Traveling south on Oak Ave to 3rd St, then east on 3rd St to Elm St covers this distance efficiently.

Question 41: After responding to a domestic disturbance, an officer should record which detail in their notes FIRST?

A description of any injuries observed
The time of arrival and address (Correct answer)
The names of any children present
The statements made by neighbors

Correct answer: The time of arrival and address

Time of arrival and address are the foundational facts that anchor the incident report to a specific time and location.

Question 42: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'An elderly man calls 911, sounding confused. He states that he does not know where he is, but he can see a sign for 'Route 7' and a large red barn. He says he was supposed to be driving to the grocery store but got lost and his phone's battery is about to die.'

A complaint about poor cell phone service.
A driver needs directions to the grocery store.
A search for a missing/endangered adult. (Correct answer)
A report of a broken-down vehicle on Route 7.

Correct answer: A search for a missing/endangered adult.

The primary problem is the immediate need to locate a vulnerable person (elderly, confused) who is lost and about to lose his only means of communication. This is a time-sensitive situation requiring a search and welfare check, not just a traffic issue. His safety is the main concern.

Question 43: Which of the following best demonstrates professionalism during a high-stress situation?

Reacting emotionally to diffuse tension
Asserting authority by raising your voice
Avoiding conflict to keep the peace
Remaining calm, focused, and respectful while managing the situation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Remaining calm, focused, and respectful while managing the situation

In high-stress situations, a professional law enforcement officer must remain calm, focused, and respectful. This approach helps de-escalate tension, maintain control, and ensure that decisions are made rationally rather than emotionally. Reacting emotionally or asserting authority aggressively can often exacerbate a situation, while a calm demeanor fosters cooperation and trust.

Question 44: Arrange the following sentences into the most logical sequence for an incident report about a traffic stop. (1) I approached the driver and explained the reason for the stop. (2) I observed a blue sedan traveling 20 mph over the speed limit. (3) I issued the driver a citation for speeding. (4) I initiated a traffic stop by activating my emergency lights.

1, 2, 4, 3
4, 2, 1, 3
2, 4, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
2, 1, 4, 3

Correct answer: 2, 4, 1, 3

The logical sequence of a traffic stop begins with the observation of a violation, followed by initiating the stop, making contact with the driver, and finally taking enforcement action. Therefore, the correct order is 2, 4, 1, 3.

Question 45: An officer sees three individuals near a parked car. Person A wears a red jacket, Person B has a beard, and Person C is holding a bag. Which detail about Person C is MOST important for identification?

Whether they made eye contact with the officer
That they are holding a bag (Correct answer)
That they are standing near a car
Their approximate height

Correct answer: That they are holding a bag

The bag is a distinguishing item that aids in identifying Person C and may contain evidence relevant to an investigation.

Question 46: Based on Department Policy 401.5, which of the following items should be used to package a bloody shirt collected as evidence? Policy 401.5 Excerpt: All collected evidence must be immediately secured. Biological evidence must be packaged in breathable paper bags, never plastic, to prevent degradation. All items must be logged into the evidence tracking system before the end of the officer's shift. Access to the main evidence locker is restricted to the Evidence Custodian and the on-duty Shift Supervisor.

A standard cardboard box.
A breathable paper bag. (Correct answer)
A sealed plastic evidence bag.
The officer's duty bag until the end of shift.

Correct answer: A breathable paper bag.

The policy explicitly states that biological evidence, such as a bloody shirt, must be packaged in breathable paper bags. Using plastic can trap moisture and lead to the degradation of crucial biological material.

Question 47: Based on the incident report table, which incident type had the highest number of reports in March?

Traffic (Correct answer)
Theft
Assault
Vandalism

Correct answer: Traffic

To answer this, look at the 'Mar' column and compare the values for each incident type. The values are Theft (52), Assault (20), Vandalism (28), and Traffic (65). The highest value is 65, which corresponds to Traffic incidents.

Question 48: Look at this series: Z, X, U, Q, L, __. What letter should come next?

E
F (Correct answer)
G
H

Correct answer: F

The pattern is to skip an increasing number of letters in reverse alphabetical order. Z to X skips 1 letter (Y). X to U skips 2 letters (W, V). U to Q skips 3 letters (T, S, R). Q to L skips 4 letters (P, O, N, M). The next step is to skip 5 letters (K, J, I, H, G), which leads to F.

Question 49: Look at this series: 4, 5, 7, 10, 14, __. What number should come next?

17
19 (Correct answer)
18
20

Correct answer: 19

The pattern is to add a sequentially increasing number to each term. First, 1 is added (4+1=5), then 2 is added (5+2=7), then 3 is added (7+3=10), and then 4 is added (10+4=14). The next step is to add 5, so 14+5=19.

Question 50: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'A homeowner reports that upon returning from vacation, she found her back door pried open. Inside, her television and some jewelry were missing. She states that she has a security camera, but the wires to it appear to have been cut.'

A malfunctioning security system.
A simple theft of property.
A residential burglary has occurred. (Correct answer)
A report of vandalism and property damage.

Correct answer: A residential burglary has occurred.

The combination of forced entry (pried door), stolen items (TV, jewelry), and deliberate disabling of security measures (cut wires) are all classic elements of a residential burglary. This is the specific crime that has been committed and needs to be investigated.

Question 51: An officer observes a vehicle at a crime scene and must later identify it. Which detail is MOST useful?

The license plate number (Correct answer)
The number of occupants
The vehicle's cleanliness
The approximate age of the vehicle

Correct answer: The license plate number

The license plate number is the most unique identifier for a vehicle and is essential for tracking, registration checks, and identification.

Question 52: Rule: Officers are required to complete a Use of Force report whenever they use physical force that is more than 'soft empty hand control' used for escorting or handcuffing a compliant subject. Scenario: A protestor goes limp and refuses to walk. Officer Rodriguez has to physically lift and carry the protestor to his patrol car.

Officer Rodriguez only needs to complete a report if the protestor files a complaint.
Officer Rodriguez does not need to complete a report because no one was injured.
Officer Rodriguez must complete a Use of Force report. (Correct answer)
Officer Rodriguez does not need to complete a report because the protestor was non-violent.

Correct answer: Officer Rodriguez must complete a Use of Force report.

Physically lifting and carrying a non-compliant person is a use of force that goes beyond 'soft empty hand control' on a compliant subject. The subject is non-compliant, and the force used is significant. Therefore, a Use of Force report is required.

Question 53: You observe a suspicious individual for approximately one minute before they flee. Which action is BEST to take immediately after?

Discuss the details with a bystander to confirm your memory
Rely on nearby security camera footage instead
Write down or dictate key details immediately (Correct answer)
Wait until backup arrives before writing notes

Correct answer: Write down or dictate key details immediately

Recording key details immediately after an observation preserves accuracy before human memory begins to fade or distort.

Question 54: Using the same arrest chart data (Day: 120, Evening: 150, Night: 90), how many more arrests were made by the Evening Shift compared to the Night Shift?

30
90
150
60 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60

This question requires comparing the values for the Evening Shift and the Night Shift. Subtract the number of Night Shift arrests from the number of Evening Shift arrests: 150 - 90 = 60.

Question 55: While responding to a domestic disturbance, both parties are yelling at each other. What is the best approach?

Immediately arrest both parties for creating a disturbance
Leave the scene if no physical violence is occurring
Join the argument to show authority
Take one person outside to de-escalate the situation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Take one person outside to de-escalate the situation

In a domestic disturbance where both parties are yelling, separating them is a crucial de-escalation technique. This allows officers to speak with each individual calmly, gather information without interruption, and reduce the immediate tension. It helps prevent the situation from escalating further and facilitates a more effective resolution.

Question 56: An officer responds to three separate medical calls at a local factory this week. The first was for a worker who fainted, the second for a worker with severe dizziness, and the third for a worker with difficulty breathing. All three were working in the same sealed paint room. What is the most likely conclusion?

The factory's workers are generally in poor health.
There may be an environmental hazard, like a gas leak, in the paint room. (Correct answer)
The factory has a high rate of workplace accidents.
The workers have unrelated, coincidental medical issues.

Correct answer: There may be an environmental hazard, like a gas leak, in the paint room.

The common factors are the location (paint room) and the similar respiratory/neurological symptoms (fainting, dizziness, breathing difficulty). This pattern strongly suggests an environmental cause, such as a chemical leak or poor ventilation, affecting the workers in that specific area.

Question 57: According to Policy 401.5, who is permitted to access the main evidence locker besides the Evidence Custodian? Policy 401.5 Excerpt: All items must be logged into the evidence tracking system before the end of the officer's shift. The chain of custody form must be initiated by the collecting officer. Access to the main evidence locker is restricted to the Evidence Custodian and the on-duty Shift Supervisor. Any suspected breach in the chain of custody must be reported immediately.

The on-duty Shift Supervisor. (Correct answer)
Any sworn officer on duty.
The Chief of Police.
The collecting officer.

Correct answer: The on-duty Shift Supervisor.

The policy clearly lists only two roles with authorized access to the main evidence locker: the Evidence Custodian and the on-duty Shift Supervisor. The collecting officer has responsibility for the evidence initially but not for locker access.

Question 58: What is the primary purpose of criminal law?

To maintain public order and protect society (Correct answer)
To punish offenders without regard for justice
To resolve civil disputes between individuals
To impose personal moral beliefs

Correct answer: To maintain public order and protect society

Criminal law establishes rules to ensure safety, order, and justice within a community by defining and punishing unlawful acts.

Question 59: Organize the following events of a suspect arrest and booking into the most logical sequence. (1) The suspect was transported to the county jail. (2) I placed the suspect in handcuffs after advising him he was under arrest. (3) The suspect's personal property was inventoried and secured. (4) I read the suspect his Miranda Rights.

2, 4, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
4, 2, 1, 3
2, 1, 4, 3
1, 2, 3, 4

Correct answer: 2, 4, 1, 3

The arrest itself (handcuffing) comes first. Immediately following the arrest, Miranda Rights must be read. Then, the suspect is transported, and the booking process (inventorying property) occurs at the facility.

Question 60: The primary purpose of packaging biological evidence in paper, as stated in the policy, is to: Policy 401.5 Excerpt: Biological evidence must be packaged in breathable paper bags, never plastic, to prevent degradation. All items must be logged into the evidence tracking system before the end of the officer's shift.

Make it easier to transport.
Reduce department costs.
Prevent degradation. (Correct answer)
Ensure it fits in the evidence locker.

Correct answer: Prevent degradation.

The policy directly links the use of breathable paper bags to the goal of preventing degradation. This method allows moisture to evaporate, preserving the integrity of the biological sample for later analysis.

Question 61: Which of the following BEST describes the role of observation skills for a criminal justice officer?

Observation skills are less important than physical fitness for officer performance
Observation is primarily useful for writing reports after an incident
Strong observation skills help officers collect evidence, identify threats, and protect the public (Correct answer)
Officers rely primarily on witness accounts rather than personal observation

Correct answer: Strong observation skills help officers collect evidence, identify threats, and protect the public

Strong observation skills are fundamental to all aspects of law enforcement, from proactively identifying threats to gathering evidence and ensuring public safety.

Question 62: Using the same reference map, which landmark is located southwest of the Courthouse?

Hospital (at Elm St & 1st St)
Police Station
Park (Correct answer)
Bank

Correct answer: Park

The Courthouse is at Maple St & 2nd St. To find a location southwest, you must look south (towards 3rd St) and west (towards Oak Ave). The Park is located at Oak Ave & 3rd St, which fits this description.

Question 63: Organize the following sentences to create a logical narrative of an investigation. (1) The evidence collected at the scene was sent to the crime lab for analysis. (2) Based on the lab results and witness statements, an arrest warrant was issued. (3) Officers responded to a burglary alarm at a local business. (4) A neighborhood canvass located a witness who saw a suspicious vehicle.

1, 4, 2, 3
3, 4, 1, 2 (Correct answer)
3, 1, 4, 2
4, 3, 1, 2

Correct answer: 3, 4, 1, 2

The narrative begins with the initial call for service. The on-scene investigation follows, which includes searching for witnesses. Evidence is then processed, and the results of that processing lead to the final step of securing a warrant.

Question 64: Rule: Any evidence collected at a crime scene must be logged on an evidence form and placed in a sealed evidence bag before the end of the officer's shift. Scenario: Officer Smith collects a knife at a crime scene at 2 PM. His shift ends at 4 PM. He places the knife in a sealed evidence bag but decides to fill out the log form the next morning to be more thorough.

Officer Smith is in violation of the rule. (Correct answer)
Officer Smith is in compliance because the evidence was properly sealed.
Officer Smith is only in violation if the evidence is lost.
Officer Smith is in compliance because being thorough is more important than the deadline.

Correct answer: Officer Smith is in violation of the rule.

The rule has two requirements: the evidence must be logged and it must be sealed before the end of the shift. By failing to complete the evidence log form before his shift ended, Officer Smith violated the procedure. Both actions were required.

Question 65: Rule: Officers must activate their body-worn camera (BWC) prior to initiating any law enforcement-related encounter. The BWC may be deactivated once the encounter has concluded. Scenario: Officer Chen is dispatched to a noise complaint. He activates his BWC as he gets out of his patrol car and walks toward the house.

Officer Chen is in violation because he should have activated it when he received the call.
Officer Chen is following the rule only if he makes an arrest.
Officer Chen is following the rule correctly. (Correct answer)
Officer Chen is in violation because a noise complaint does not require BWC activation.

Correct answer: Officer Chen is following the rule correctly.

Responding to a dispatch call for a noise complaint is a law enforcement-related encounter. By activating his camera before he makes contact with any individuals at the house, Officer Chen is following the rule correctly. He is activating it prior to initiating the encounter.

Question 66: Read the following report and identify the main problem: 'A restaurant manager called to report that a customer is refusing to pay his $50 bill. The customer claims the food was unsatisfactory. The manager has asked the customer to pay or leave, but the customer is refusing to do either and is causing a scene.'

A customer is complaining about poor food quality.
A civil dispute over payment that has created a disturbance. (Correct answer)
A customer is trespassing in the restaurant.
A robbery has occurred at the restaurant.

Correct answer: A civil dispute over payment that has created a disturbance.

This is not a simple theft, as the customer is still present and stating a reason for non-payment. The problem is a civil dispute over service quality that has escalated into a disturbance, requiring an officer to mediate and keep the peace, a situation often referred to as 'defrauding an innkeeper.'

Question 67: You respond to a domestic disturbance where one party is visibly injured but refuses to press charges. What should you do?

Document the injuries, gather evidence, and report the incident. (Correct answer)
Insist they press charges before taking further action.
Leave the scene since no charges will be filed.
Ignore the situation and focus on preventing further conflict.

Correct answer: Document the injuries, gather evidence, and report the incident.

The primary purpose of criminal law is to maintain public order, protect citizens from harm, and ensure justice within society. It establishes rules of conduct, defines crimes, and prescribes punishments for those who violate these laws. This framework aims to deter criminal behavior and uphold the safety and well-being of the community.

Question 68: A new library is built at the intersection of Maple St and 3rd St. Which landmark is now located directly north of the new library?

The Police Station
The Bank
The Park
The Courthouse (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The Courthouse

The new library is at Maple St & 3rd St. 'Directly north' means staying on the same north-south street (Maple St) but moving to a street with a lower number. The Courthouse is located at Maple St & 2nd St, which is directly north of the library's location.

Question 69: Which memory technique is MOST useful for accurately recalling the exact sequence of events during a fast-moving incident?

Writing only the final outcome of the incident
Waiting 24 hours to allow the memory to consolidate fully
Discussing the incident with colleagues before writing notes
Mental replay — visualizing the incident from beginning to end immediately afterward (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Mental replay — visualizing the incident from beginning to end immediately afterward

Mental replay immediately after an incident helps officers accurately reconstruct the sequence of events while details are still fresh and uncontaminated by outside input.

Question 70: An officer witnesses a robbery and later must describe the suspect. Which physical feature is typically the most reliable to recall?

Hairstyle
General build and height (Correct answer)
Skin complexion
Eye color

Correct answer: General build and height

General build and height are the most reliably recalled features because they are observed from a distance and are difficult to quickly alter.

Question 71: An officer starts at the Police Station, drives 2 blocks east, and then 2 blocks south. Where is the officer's final location?

The Bank (Correct answer)
The intersection of Maple St & 3rd St
The Park
The Courthouse

Correct answer: The Bank

The Police Station is at Oak Ave & 1st St. Driving 2 blocks east moves the officer from Oak Ave to Elm St, while staying on 1st St. Driving 2 blocks south from there moves the officer from 1st St to 3rd St. The final location is the intersection of Elm St & 3rd St, which is the Bank.

Question 72: A neighborhood has ongoing complaints about loud parties late at night. What is the most effective way to address this issue?

Ignore the issue since it doesn’t involve major crimes
Write citations for anyone hosting a party
Work with residents to educate them on local noise ordinances (Correct answer)
Shut down all events in the area to prevent further complaints

Correct answer: Work with residents to educate them on local noise ordinances

Addressing ongoing complaints about loud parties effectively involves community engagement and education. Working with residents to inform them about local noise ordinances can lead to voluntary compliance and a better understanding of community expectations. This approach fosters positive police-community relations and can resolve issues without immediately resorting to punitive measures.

Question 73: Using the incident report table, which month had the lowest number of reported Vandalism incidents?

January and March were equal
February
March (Correct answer)
January

Correct answer: March

Locate the 'Vandalism' row in the table. Compare the values for each month: January (30), February (35), and March (28). The lowest of these three values is 28, which occurred in March.

Question 74: Which sentence uses the correct word?

They're waiting for their ride to get there. (Correct answer)
The suspects left there vehicle and fled.
The officers put on they're gear.
There going to leave their car over they're.

Correct answer: They're waiting for their ride to get there.

This sentence correctly uses 'their' as a possessive pronoun, 'there' to indicate a location, and 'they're' as a contraction for 'they are'. The other options incorrectly interchange these commonly confused words.

Question 75: Rule: Department vehicles may only be used for official business. Transporting non-department personnel is prohibited unless they are a victim, witness, or suspect in an official investigation. Scenario: Officer Davis finishes his shift and, on his way to the station, stops to pick up his dry cleaning while in his patrol car.

Officer Davis is in compliance as long as he did not transport any non-department personnel.
Officer Davis is in compliance because he was on his way back to the station.
Officer Davis is in violation of the rule. (Correct answer)
There is not enough information to determine if a violation occurred.

Correct answer: Officer Davis is in violation of the rule.

Picking up personal dry cleaning is not considered official police business. The rule strictly limits the use of department vehicles to official duties. Therefore, Officer Davis is in violation of the vehicle use policy.

Question 76: While patrolling, you find a wallet with $500 in cash but no identification. What is the most professional action to take?

Hold onto it until someone comes looking for it.
Ask nearby businesses if they know who might have lost it.
Turn it over to your supervisor or lost-and-found immediately. (Correct answer)
Keep the money since no one can claim it.

Correct answer: Turn it over to your supervisor or lost-and-found immediately.

As a law enforcement officer, maintaining integrity and transparency is paramount. Turning over found property, especially cash, to your supervisor or a designated lost-and-found immediately ensures proper procedure is followed and prevents any appearance of impropriety. This action upholds ethical standards and increases the likelihood of the property being returned to its rightful owner.

Question 77: A suspect refuses to comply with your commands during an arrest. What is your next step?

Call for backup and maintain a safe distance
Ignore the suspect and move on to another task
Allow the suspect to leave the scene
Use reasonable force to gain compliance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use reasonable force to gain compliance

When a suspect refuses to comply with lawful commands during an arrest, officers are authorized to use reasonable force to gain compliance and effect the arrest. This force must be proportionate to the resistance offered and necessary to ensure officer safety and the successful apprehension of the suspect. Allowing the suspect to leave or ignoring non-compliance would compromise public safety and the officer's duty.

Question 78: After completing an arrest, an officer is writing an incident report. Which approach BEST reflects proper use of observation in report writing?

Including personal opinions about the suspect's demeanor
Summarizing events based on the most probable scenario
Including reasonable speculation about the suspect's motives
Documenting only what the officer can personally verify through direct observation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Documenting only what the officer can personally verify through direct observation

Effective police reports are based solely on directly observed facts, which ensures accuracy, credibility, and admissibility in legal proceedings.

Question 79: An officer must recall the license plate '7KBZ214' from a fleeing vehicle. Which memory grouping is MOST effective?

7-K-B-Z-2-1-4 (each character separately)
7KB-Z214 (two meaningful chunks) (Correct answer)
7KBZZ14 (grouping similar-looking characters)
Z214-7KB (reversed for better recall)

Correct answer: 7KB-Z214 (two meaningful chunks)

Chunking the plate into two groups (7KB-Z214) reduces cognitive load and is proven to improve accurate short-term recall of alphanumeric strings.

Question 80: During a traffic stop, you notice a driver is nervous and avoiding questions. What should you do?

Calmly ask open-ended questions to gather more information (Correct answer)
Immediately arrest the driver for suspicious behavior
Call for backup without further engagement
End the stop and let them go to avoid conflict

Correct answer: Calmly ask open-ended questions to gather more information

During a traffic stop, if a driver is nervous and avoiding questions, the most professional approach is to remain calm and ask open-ended questions. This technique helps gather more information, assess the situation accurately, and potentially de-escalate any anxiety the driver might be experiencing. Jumping to conclusions or immediately arresting them without further information would be premature and unprofessional.

National Criminal Justice Officer Selection Inventory (NCJOSI2)

The NCJOSI2 is a pre-employment cognitive ability test developed by IO Solutions for law enforcement agencies. It evaluates candidates across 10 subject areas including reading comprehension, reasoning, situational judgment, and basic criminal law knowledge.

Questions

150 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

Checking for saved progress...

Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds