Situational Judgement Flashcards

You are on patrol when a shopkeeper flags you down and says a teenager just stole a chocolate bar from his store. The teenager is still nearby. What is your MOST appropriate first action?

Answer: Speak to both the shopkeeper and the teenager to establish the full facts

Gathering facts from both parties ensures a fair and proportionate response before any further action is taken.

During a domestic disturbance call, you arrive to find a couple arguing loudly. Neither appears physically injured. The neighbours who called are watching from next door. What should you do FIRST?

Answer: Separate the couple and speak to each individually to assess the situation

Separating the parties allows each person to speak freely and helps you assess safety risks and the nature of the dispute.

A colleague tells you they saw your supervisor accept a free meal from a local restaurant owner who has an ongoing complaint on file. What is the MOST appropriate action?

Answer: Report the observation through the appropriate internal integrity channel

Potential integrity issues must be reported through proper channels to allow a fair investigation without personal confrontation or gossip.

You stop a vehicle for a minor traffic infringement and notice the driver smells faintly of alcohol but is cooperative and shows no other signs of impairment. What do you do?

Answer: Conduct a roadside breath test as per standard procedure

Any detection of alcohol requires a breath test regardless of the driver's apparent condition, as per standard police procedure.

You are writing your first use-of-force report and are unsure of how to accurately describe the events. A more experienced officer offers to write it for you. What should you do?

Answer: Decline and write the report yourself, seeking guidance on format if needed

Use-of-force reports must be completed by the officer involved to ensure accuracy and personal accountability.

While off duty, you witness a serious road accident. You are not in uniform and do not have your police radio. What is the MOST appropriate course of action?

Answer: Stop, call 000, identify yourself as a police officer, and render first aid if safe

Police officers have a duty of care at all times; calling emergency services and providing assistance when safe is always the appropriate response.

You are interviewing a victim of a break-and-enter. The victim becomes visibly distressed and starts crying. How should you respond?

Answer: Pause the interview, acknowledge their distress, and offer support before continuing when they are ready

Acknowledging a victim's emotional state and allowing a brief pause demonstrates empathy and often leads to a more effective interview.