SDPD - San Diego Police Department Domestic Violence Response Questions and Answers

Question 1

An SDPD officer responds to a domestic disturbance.
Both parties have visible, minor injuries and claim the other started the physical altercation.
Under California Penal Code § 13701(b), which of the following is the most critical factor for the officer to consider when determining whom to arrest?

Accepted Answer

Which individual has a more significant history of domestic violence and presents a greater ongoing threat.

Answer

Which individual initiated the first physical contact.

Answer

Which individual is willing to be transported from the scene for the night.

Answer

Which individual appears more upset and emotionally distressed.

Question 2

Upon arriving at the scene of a domestic violence incident involving a physical assault, an SDPD officer observes a handgun on a coffee table in plain sight. According to California Penal Code § 18250, what is the officer's legal obligation regarding the firearm?

Accepted Answer

Take temporary custody of the firearm for the protection of the officer and others present.

Answer

Ask the owner to secure the firearm in a locked container before leaving the premises.

Answer

Only seize the firearm if it was used during the commission of the assault.

Answer

Inform the individuals that the firearm must be sold to a licensed dealer within 24 hours.

Question 3

An SDPD officer determines there is probable cause to arrest a suspect for a misdemeanor domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)) that did not occur in the officer's presence. Which of the following is true regarding the officer's authority to make a warrantless arrest?

Accepted Answer

The officer may make a warrantless arrest under the authority of PC § 836(d).

Answer

The officer must obtain a warrant as the misdemeanor was not committed in their presence.

Answer

The officer must have the victim perform a private person's arrest.

Answer

The officer can only detain the suspect until a warrant is issued by a judge.

Question 4

During a domestic violence investigation, a victim expresses fear for their safety after the officer leaves. The suspect has not yet been located. To provide immediate protection, the officer should inform the victim about and offer to request which type of court order?

Accepted Answer

An Emergency Protective Order (EPO)

Answer

A Permanent Restraining Order (PRO)

Answer

A Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO)

Answer

A Notice to Appear Citation

Question 5

Which of the following relationships falls under the legal definition of 'domestic violence' according to California Penal Code § 13700(b)?

Accepted Answer

Abuse committed against a person with whom the suspect has previously had a dating relationship.

Answer

A dispute between two roommates who have never had a dating relationship.

Answer

A conflict between a landlord and a tenant over rent.

Answer

An argument between two long-time neighbors over a property line.

Question 6

An SDPD officer is investigating a domestic violence call where a victim has visible injuries qualifying as a felony under PC 273.5. The victim is uncooperative and states they do not want the suspect arrested. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the officer?

Accepted Answer

Arrest the suspect based on the probable cause established by the visible injuries, regardless of the victim's wishes.

Answer

Honor the victim's wishes and close the investigation without an arrest.

Answer

Issue a citation to the suspect and advise them to leave for the night.

Answer

Advise the victim that they must make a private person's arrest if they want action taken.