POST Community Policing Principles 2

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes the 'broken windows' theory as it relates to community policing?

Accepted Answer

Visible signs of disorder left unaddressed signal that crime is tolerated, leading to more serious offenses

Answer

The broken windows theory holds that visible disorder, if unchecked, signals neglect and invites escalating criminal behavior.

Question 2

A community policing officer wants to build trust with a neighborhood experiencing high gang activity. What is the MOST effective first step?

Accepted Answer

Attend community meetings and listen to residents' concerns

Answer

Attending community meetings and listening establishes rapport, which is foundational to gaining community trust.

Question 3

Under the SARA problem-solving model, what occurs during the 'Analysis' phase?

Accepted Answer

Officers gather and examine data to understand the problem's causes and conditions

Answer

The Analysis phase involves collecting and interpreting data to identify root causes and contributing factors of a problem.

Question 4

Which agency function is MOST consistent with a community policing philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Decentralized patrol with officers assigned to consistent geographic areas

Answer

Decentralized, consistent geographic assignment allows officers to know their community and build lasting relationships.

Question 5

A resident tells a community policing officer that drug sales are occurring in a park but refuses to give a formal statement out of fear. What should the officer do FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Reassure the resident of available protections and document the information for follow-up

Answer

Officers should validate concerns, explain confidentiality options, and document tips to enable further investigation.

POST - Peace Officer Standards and Training Practice Test

POST - Peace Officer Standards and Training Practice Test

POST Community Policing Principles 2