Problem Sensitivity & Ordering Flashcards

Residents report a surge in graffiti appearing on walls and fences within a specific three-block area over the past two weeks. What underlying problem should an officer identify?

Answer: Emerging gang territorial activity or organized tagging crews may be claiming the area

Concentrated graffiti appearing rapidly in a defined area is a recognized early indicator of gang territorial expansion or organized tagging activity.

You notice a teenager you know from the neighborhood suddenly wearing designer clothing, carrying large amounts of cash, and regularly associating with older men known to police. What problem should you identify?

Answer: The teenager may be involved in or recruited into criminal activity such as drug sales or trafficking

Sudden unexplained wealth combined with known criminal associates is a recognized indicator of youth criminal recruitment.

A traffic signal malfunctions during rush hour and near-collisions are already occurring. What is the CORRECT sequence for an officer to follow?

Answer: Immediately begin manually directing traffic, simultaneously notify traffic control, then document the malfunction

The immediate hazard of active near-collisions requires direct officer intervention while administrative notification is made concurrently.

A convenience store clerk reports that the same group of teenagers visits nightly and one always engages the clerk in lengthy conversation while the others browse the store freely. Inventory losses have increased. What problem should you identify?

Answer: The teenagers are likely using a coordinated distraction technique to shoplift from the store

A designated distractor while others move freely through a store is a textbook coordinated shoplifting method.

You observe a vehicle weaving between lanes at inconsistent speeds and nearly failing to stop at a red light. What should be your FIRST assessment of the potential problem?

Answer: The driver may be impaired by alcohol, drugs, or experiencing a medical emergency

Multiple concurrent driving errors—weaving, inconsistent speed, and signal violations—together indicate systemic impairment rather than a single distraction.

A homeowner reports that a stranger knocked on three doors on the block asking each resident what times the house is normally empty and whether anyone is home during the day. What should an officer identify?

Answer: The man may be casing residences in preparation for a burglary

Asking residents about occupancy schedules and when homes will be empty is a direct behavioral indicator of pre-burglary reconnaissance.

You discover that three cars on the same block have freshly smashed windows and glass is still on the pavement. What is the CORRECT sequence of initial response?

Answer: Secure the immediate area, broadcast any available suspect description, canvas for witnesses, then complete reports

Fresh evidence means the suspect may be nearby; immediate containment and description broadcast can result in rapid apprehension before reports are needed.