Reading Comprehension Skills Flashcards

Read the following: 'Probable cause exists when facts and circumstances within an officer's knowledge are sufficient to warrant a person of reasonable caution to believe that a crime has been committed. It is a higher standard than reasonable suspicion but lower than proof beyond a reasonable doubt.' Which statement best describes probable cause according to this passage?

Answer: It falls between reasonable suspicion and proof beyond a reasonable doubt

The passage explicitly states probable cause is higher than reasonable suspicion but lower than proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

An officer reads an incident narrative: 'Victim stated she was approached from behind while walking to her car. The suspect grabbed her purse and ran southbound. Victim described the suspect as a male, approximately 5'10", wearing a red hoodie and dark jeans. No weapon was displayed.' What is the most accurate description of the suspect's clothing?

Answer: Red hoodie and dark jeans

The passage states the suspect was wearing a red hoodie and dark jeans.

Read: 'The department's vehicle pursuit policy states officers must consider road conditions, time of day, traffic density, and the severity of the suspected offense before initiating a pursuit. Pursuits for minor traffic violations are discouraged unless the operator poses an imminent threat to public safety.' When is a pursuit for a minor traffic violation acceptable?

Answer: When the operator poses an imminent threat to public safety

The passage states pursuits for minor violations are discouraged unless the operator poses an imminent threat to public safety.

A bulletin states: 'Be on the lookout for a stolen 2019 blue Ford F-150 pickup truck, bearing license plate ZXR-4421. The vehicle was last seen traveling westbound on Highway 9 at approximately 1400 hours. The registered owner is not a suspect. Do not stop the registered owner's other vehicles.' What is the license plate of the stolen vehicle?

Answer: ZXR-4421

The bulletin clearly states the license plate is ZXR-4421.

Read: 'Miranda warnings must be given when a suspect is in custody and subject to interrogation. Custody means the suspect is not free to leave. Interrogation refers to any questioning or conduct by police that is reasonably likely to elicit an incriminating response. Spontaneous statements made without questioning do not require Miranda warnings.' Are Miranda warnings required for a spontaneous statement made by a person in custody?

Answer: No, because spontaneous statements are not the result of interrogation

The passage explicitly states that spontaneous statements made without questioning do not require Miranda warnings.

An officer reads: 'Drug identification field tests are presumptive, not confirmatory. A positive field test indicates the possible presence of a controlled substance but is not sufficient alone for a criminal conviction. Laboratory analysis is required to confirm the identity and quantity of the substance.' What does a positive field test indicate?

Answer: The possible presence of a controlled substance

The passage states a positive field test indicates the possible presence of a controlled substance, not definitive proof.