DCJS Community Policing & Public Relations 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following best describes the 'broken windows' theory and its connection to community policing?
- Arresting all suspects reduces crime
- Visible signs of disorder left unaddressed invite more serious crime (Correct answer)
- Broken windows in patrol cars signal poor department funding
- Officers should focus only on violent felonies
Correct answer: Visible signs of disorder left unaddressed invite more serious crime
The broken windows theory holds that visible signs of disorder and neglect signal that an area tolerates crime, encouraging more serious criminal behavior.
Question 2: In community policing, what is the primary purpose of a Citizen Police Academy?
- To train citizens to make arrests
- To familiarize residents with law enforcement operations and build mutual understanding (Correct answer)
- To replace sworn officers with volunteers
- To conduct background checks on community members
Correct answer: To familiarize residents with law enforcement operations and build mutual understanding
Citizen Police Academies educate residents about how policing works, fostering transparency and building trust between the community and the department.
Question 3: A foot patrol officer in a high-crime neighborhood should prioritize which community policing strategy?
- Issuing maximum citations to deter crime
- Building relationships with residents and business owners to gather information and build trust (Correct answer)
- Maintaining physical distance to preserve officer neutrality
- Focusing exclusively on warrant service
Correct answer: Building relationships with residents and business owners to gather information and build trust
Foot patrol officers are most effective when they build personal relationships that encourage community members to share information and cooperate with law enforcement.
Question 4: Which communication technique is most effective when an officer needs to de-escalate a tense public encounter?
- Issuing immediate commands without explanation
- Using active listening, calm tone, and acknowledging the person's concerns (Correct answer)
- Calling for backup before engaging the subject
- Remaining silent to avoid escalating the situation
Correct answer: Using active listening, calm tone, and acknowledging the person's concerns
Active listening and a calm demeanor validate the individual's perspective and reduce tension, making de-escalation more likely.
Question 5: Under the SARA problem-solving model used in community policing, what does the 'R' stand for?
- Review
- Response (Correct answer)
- Report
- Redirect
Correct answer: Response
In the SARA model (Scanning, Analysis, Response, Assessment), 'R' stands for Response—the implementation of tailored strategies to address the identified problem.
Question 6: A community member approaches an officer with a complaint about a neighbor's ongoing loud parties. What is the most appropriate community policing response?
- Tell the citizen to call 911 each time it occurs
- Conduct a problem-solving assessment and work with the citizen on a long-term solution (Correct answer)
- Issue a blanket noise citation to the neighbor without investigation
- Refer the matter solely to code enforcement with no follow-up
Correct answer: Conduct a problem-solving assessment and work with the citizen on a long-term solution
Community policing requires officers to engage in collaborative problem-solving rather than reactive enforcement alone.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of procedural justice in law enforcement interactions?
- Ensuring all suspects are charged equally regardless of evidence
- Treating individuals with dignity, explaining decisions, and allowing them to be heard (Correct answer)
- Prioritizing officer safety over community input at all times
- Using discretion to avoid all arrests in minority communities
Correct answer: Treating individuals with dignity, explaining decisions, and allowing them to be heard
Procedural justice focuses on fair, respectful, and transparent processes that enhance legitimacy even when the outcome may not favor the individual.
DCJS Community Policing & Public Relations 2
Which of the following best describes the 'broken windows' theory and its connection to community policing?