Patrol Observation and Perception

Performance Outcomes

Key Skills:

• Recognize factors affecting perception.

• Differentiate between patrol methods.

• Identify an effective course of action based on suspicious or criminal circumstances.

• Evaluate how time and day of the week affect crime trends.

• Use various information sources effectively.

• Experiment with problem-solving exercises.

• Document observations in a written report.

Observation vs. Perception

• Observation:

  • Gathering data by recognizing and noting facts.

  • Example questions:

    • How many offenders are in the front row?

    • What objects are present, like a clipped object on the instructor’s jacket?

• Perception:

  • Direct awareness of anything through the senses.

Key Elements of Witness Reliability

• Presence: Was the witness at the scene?

• Awareness: Was the witness aware of the events happening?

• Attention: Was the witness focused on the event?

• Competence: Was the witness able to accurately communicate what they observed?

Enhancing Observation Skills

• Be Curious: Stay open to learning and noticing new details.

• Ask Questions: Engage with your environment to gain more insight.

• Write Things Down: Document observations to improve retention and accuracy.

What are the internal and external factors that affect perception?

• Internal Factors:

  • Personal Characteristics: Physical condition and acuity of senses.

  • Emotional & Psychological Conditions: Stress can alter sensory sharpness.

  • Experience & Education: Previous experiences shape perception.

  • Prejudice or Bias: People see what they want to see.

  • Point of View: Distinguish between observations and conclusions.

  • Memory: How well you recall the event.

• External Factors:

  • Distance/Proximity: Closer events attract more attention.

  • Phenomena: Lighting, weather, and sounds affect perception.

  • Intensity & Size: Larger, louder objects get more attention.

  • Contrast: Unusual or different things stand out.

  • Repetition: Frequent appearances draw more focus.

  • Movement: Moving objects are more noticeable.

  • Similarities: Noticing common features (e.g., scars, clothing).

  • Sounds: Perception of size can be influenced by sound (e.g., louder = larger).

Faulty Observations or Perceptions

• Snap Judgments: Making quick decisions without full understanding.

• Listening to Only One Side of the Story: Missing important context or other perspectives.

• Projection: Focusing on one part of the situation rather than the whole.

• Prejudice: Biases affecting judgment, especially when assessing credibility.

• Predisposition: Influence of past experiences or environment on current perception.

• Preoccupation: Mental distractions that affect attention to the situation.

• Lack of Appreciation: Not understanding or considering someone’s mental state (e.g., in cases like burglary).

Skills for Achieving Police Work Goals

• Officer Safety: Prioritizing personal safety during all operations.

• Observation: Being attentive and aware of surroundings.

• Problem Solving: Effectively identifying and resolving issues.

• Ability to Follow Orders: Adhering to instructions and protocols.

• Capacity to Learn: Continuously acquiring new skills and knowledge.

• Compassion and Respect: Showing empathy and understanding for others.

• Effective Communication Skills: Clearly expressing ideas and listening to others.

• Patrol: Actively monitoring areas to ensure public safety and order.

Factors Influencing Criminal Activity

• Time of Day: Criminal behavior may vary depending on whether it's day or night.

• Day of the Week: Some crimes may be more likely on certain days (e.g., weekends).

• Time of Year: Seasonal trends can affect types of crimes (e.g., holidays or summer months).

• Sports Teams: Winning or losing games can trigger celebratory or riotous behavior.

• Current Events: Social, political, or economic events can influence the rate and nature of crimes.

Responding Based on Observation & Perception

• Crimes Against Person: Prioritize immediate safety, secure the scene, and ensure medical assistance if needed.

• Crimes Against Property: Protect the scene, preserve evidence, and investigate the extent of damage or theft.

• Gang Activity: Identify the involved parties, assess the threat level, and consider gang-related intelligence or patterns.

• Missing Children: Initiate search protocols, gather information from witnesses, and issue alerts quickly.

• Natural Disaster: Focus on public safety, direct resources to critical areas, and assist with evacuations or rescue operations.

• Terrorist Event: Ensure public safety, secure the area, and collaborate with specialized units or agencies.