NYPD NYPD Legal Definitions and Police Procedures

Question 1

Under U.S. law, what constitutes 'probable cause'?

Accepted Answer

A reasonable belief based on articulable facts that a crime has been or is being committed

Answer

A mere hunch that someone appears suspicious

Answer

Any anonymous tip regardless of reliability

Answer

A witness statement alone, regardless of credibility

Question 2

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures?

Accepted Answer

Fourth Amendment

Answer

Second Amendment

Answer

Fifth Amendment

Answer

Sixth Amendment

Question 3

Under the Miranda ruling, when must an officer advise a suspect of their rights?

Accepted Answer

Before conducting a custodial interrogation

Answer

Before questioning any person on the street

Answer

Immediately upon placing handcuffs on a suspect

Answer

Only when a suspect specifically asks for a lawyer

Question 4

What does 'exigent circumstances' permit law enforcement to do?

Accepted Answer

Enter a premises without a warrant when immediate action is necessary to prevent harm or destruction of evidence

Answer

Delay an arrest for up to 72 hours pending investigation

Answer

Search a vehicle without consent following any traffic stop

Answer

Detain a witness indefinitely for questioning

Question 5

What is a 'Terry stop,' as established by Terry v. Ohio?

Accepted Answer

A brief investigatory stop based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity

Answer

A full custodial arrest based on an active warrant

Answer

A vehicle search following a lawful traffic stop

Answer

A search of a home based on probable cause

Question 6

What is the 'exclusionary rule' in U.S. criminal law?

Accepted Answer

Evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures cannot be used in court

Answer

Convicted felons are excluded from serving on juries

Answer

Officers must exclude bystanders from active crime scenes

Answer

Certain suspects are excluded from Miranda protections