MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

If you observe someone discarding an item into a dumpster while walking away from you, what should you do?

1. Radio for backup, then chase the suspect

2. Interview the suspect to determine the situation

3. Check the area for discarded items and assess the situation

4. Ignore and proceed with your patrol

The correct answer is: Check the area for discarded items and assess the situation

The choice to check the area for discarded items and assess the situation is appropriate because it allows for a thorough understanding of what has transpired. Upon witnessing someone discard an item, it is essential to gather information about the nature of the item, the intent of the individual, and the context of the situation. By inspecting the area, you can determine if the item is of interest or could be related to a crime, such as stolen property, hazardous materials, or evidence in an ongoing investigation. This approach emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and proactive engagement, allowing you to make informed decisions based on the findings. Additionally, assessing the area helps ensure safety for yourself and the public by identifying any potential hazards or criminal activity that may need to be addressed. Other choices suggest actions that may not be as effective in this scenario. For instance, immediately chasing the suspect could endanger you or escalate the situation without understanding the context. Interviewing the suspect without assessing the situation might not yield reliable information and could also lead to confrontation. Ignoring the incident altogether dismisses the responsibility to maintain public safety and order.