Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What should an officer do if they suspect a crime in progress?

1. Ignore it

2. Investigate further

3. Leave the area

4. Immediately call for backup

The correct answer is: Investigate further

When an officer suspects a crime in progress, the appropriate response is to investigate further. This action is crucial because it allows the officer to assess the situation and gather more information about the potential crime. By actively investigating, the officer can determine the nature and severity of the situation, potentially preventing additional harm or criminal activity. This approach empowers the officer to make informed decisions about how to proceed, whether that involves intervening directly, calling for additional support, or taking other necessary measures to ensure public safety. Officers are trained to be observant and diligent, as timely and decisive action may be essential in apprehending suspects or providing assistance to victims. To elaborate on the other choices, ignoring a suspected crime or leaving the area would not only endanger public safety but could also lead to liability issues for the officer and their department. Calling for backup immediately without first investigating may lead to unnecessary escalation or resource misallocation, especially if the situation is not as dire as initially suspected. Therefore, investigating further is the most responsible and professional course of action for an officer in such a scenario.