Chapter_5

Discretion

The power of police officers to make decisions on when to enforce the law or take action based on their judgment.

Incident Commander

The individual responsible for overseeing and managing an incident response.

Quasi-military structure

A police department organization that resembles a military framework, including ranks and centralized command.

Patrol Division

The branch of police responsible for patrolling areas, responding to calls, and preventing crime.

Selective Enforcement

The practice of police choosing which laws to enforce based on a variety of factors, including resource availability.

Fourth Amendment

Part of the U.S. Constitution that protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and establishes the requirement of probable cause for warrants.

Search Warrant

A legal document that authorizes police to enter and search premises for evidence of a crime.

Plain-view doctrine

The legal principle that allows police to seize evidence of a crime without a warrant if it is in plain sight.

Stop-and-Frisk

A police practice where officers stop a suspect and pat them down for weapons if there is reasonable suspicion.

Probable Cause

The standard by which police must have enough reason to believe that a crime has been committed before making an arrest.

No-knock warrant

A warrant that allows police to enter a property without prior notification to the occupants, typically used in situations where announcing presence could lead to evidence destruction.

Mental illness response

The duties of police facing situations involving individuals with mental health issues, which require judgment and discretion.

Traffic Enforcement

Police responsibilities that focus on maintaining road safety, enforcing traffic laws, and responding to accidents.

Investigative Duties

Responsibilities of detectives to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build prosecutable cases after crimes have occurred.

Peacemaking

The role of police in resolving conflicts and maintaining public order through problem-solving and intervention strategies.

Community and Staff Development

The division within police organizations focused on training and support for officers and community engagement.

Victimless Crimes

Crimes that do not directly harm another individual, such as drug use or gambling, often categorized differently in law enforcement.

Civilian Staff

Support personnel who assist police departments in non-enforcement roles, contributing to administrative functions.

Jurisdiction

The official power or authority of law enforcement agencies to enforce laws within a specified area.

Emergency Access Routes

Roads established by police to manage access for emergency responders to an incident scene.