MPOETC - Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission PA Crimes Code Application Questions and Answers

Question 1

Under Pennsylvania law, a person is guilty of Burglary (18 Pa.C.S. § 3502) if they enter a building or occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime therein.
For the act to be graded as a Felony of the First Degree, which of the following circumstances must be present?

Accepted Answer

The structure is adapted for overnight accommodation and a person is present at the time of the offense.

Answer

The actor carries a firearm during the commission of the offense.

Answer

The crime intended to be committed inside is a felony.

Answer

The structure is a commercial establishment and the offense occurs at night.

Question 2

An officer responds to a report of two individuals spray-painting graffiti on a public monument. The estimated cost to remove the graffiti is $800. Which of the following is the most appropriate charge under the PA Crimes Code?

Accepted Answer

Criminal Mischief

Answer

Institutional Vandalism

Answer

Desecration of Venerated Objects

Answer

Disorderly Conduct

Question 3

Which of the following mental states, or 'mens rea,' is generally required for a conviction of Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3921?

Accepted Answer

Intentionally

Answer

Negligently

Answer

Recklessly

Answer

Strict Liability

Question 4

A person secretly records a conversation with their coworker without the coworker's consent. The conversation is about non-criminal, personal matters. In Pennsylvania, which crime has most likely been committed?

Accepted Answer

Violation of the Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act

Answer

Harassment

Answer

Stalking

Answer

Blackmail

Question 5

During a heated argument over a parking space, Mark shoves Tom with both hands, causing Tom to stumble backward but suffer no physical injury. Which of the following offenses has Mark most likely committed?

Accepted Answer

Simple Assault

Answer

Aggravated Assault

Answer

Recklessly Endangering Another Person

Answer

Terroristic Threats

Question 6

Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 907, a person can be charged with Possessing Instruments of Crime. Which of the following is a key element the prosecution must prove for a conviction?

Accepted Answer

The person possessed the instrument with intent to employ it criminally.

Answer

The instrument was a deadly weapon.

Answer

The instrument was used to commit a felony.

Answer

The instrument was concealed from public view.