Review of Police Procedures and Structure

These flashcards cover critical vocabulary and concepts related to police procedures, liabilities, organization, and challenges faced by law enforcement.

Consent Decree

A tool used to change police practices and provide oversight for departments.

Civil Liability

When an officer can be sued for violating someone's civil rights.

Section 1983 Legislation

Allows people to sue officers or officials who misuse their power to violate rights.

Vicarious Liability

When a police department is held responsible for an officer's wrongful actions.

Proximate Cause

When an officer's actions directly cause harm, such as a crash or injury.

Vehicle Pursuits

High-risk chases that can cause injury or damage, allowed if the suspect is dangerous.

Failure to Protect

When police put someone in danger instead of keeping them safe.

Duty of Care

Police must protect and keep people in custody safe from harm.

Transparency

Sharing information about police actions with the public.

Body Cameras

Devices used to promote police transparency, raising questions about usage and access to footage.

Police Brutality

Unnecessary or excessive force by police against citizens, often unreported.

Force Prerogative

The legal reasons police can use force: self-defense, control of others, and discretion.

Use of Force Continuum

A guide showing how much force is acceptable to gain control.

Excessive Force

Using more force than needed to handle a situation.

Jurisdiction

The area where police have power to act.

First Responders

People who respond first in an emergency, including police, fire, and EMS.

Federal Law Enforcement

Agencies that handle national crimes, such as terrorism and drugs.

Department of Justice (DOJ)

Federal agency headed by the Attorney General that oversees federal law enforcement.

Sheriff

An elected official who runs county law enforcement and jail operations.

Private Security

Companies that hire guards/detectives to protect people or property with limited powers.

Locard's Principle

The notion that criminals always leave or take something at a crime scene.

CSI Effect

The misconception that forensic science leads to quick crime-solving.

Hiring Hurdles

The steps in the police hiring process, including tests and background checks.

Psychological Tests

Assessments that evaluate an applicant's emotions, health, and personality.

Field Training Officer (FTO)

An officer who trains new recruits in real-life patrol situations.

Police Styles

Different approaches to policing: Watchman, Legalistic, and Service.

Discretion

The ability of officers to decide when to act or not.