TCOLE Basic Peace Officer 3

Question 1

Which level of force is generally authorized for an officer attempting to control an actively resisting subject who is not armed?

Accepted Answer

Defensive tactics and pain compliance techniques

Answer

Active resistance typically justifies defensive tactics and pain compliance techniques within a department's use-of-force continuum.

Question 2

Under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, a peace officer may enter a dwelling without a warrant when:

Accepted Answer

Exigent circumstances exist, such as imminent danger to life

Answer

Exigent circumstances — including imminent danger to life — are a recognized exception allowing warrantless entry under Texas and federal law.

Question 3

A motorist is stopped for a traffic violation. During the stop, the officer smells marijuana. This gives the officer:

Accepted Answer

Probable cause to search the vehicle

Answer

The odor of marijuana emanating from a vehicle provides probable cause to search under the automobile exception to the warrant requirement.

Question 4

In Texas, the offense of Evading Arrest or Detention becomes a felony when:

Accepted Answer

The suspect uses a vehicle during the evasion

Answer

Under Texas Penal Code Section 38.04, evading arrest becomes a state jail felony when the defendant uses a vehicle, or a third-degree felony if serious bodily injury results.

Question 5

Which best describes the 'excited utterance' hearsay exception relevant to officer testimony?

Accepted Answer

A statement made while the declarant was under the stress of a startling event

Answer

An excited utterance is a statement relating to a startling event made while the declarant was still under its stress, making it admissible as a hearsay exception.

TCOLE - Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Practice Test

TCOLE - Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Practice Test

TCOLE Basic Peace Officer 3