LEA1 – Law Enforcement Organization and Intelligence

Accomplice-A person who knowingly and voluntarily assists another in committing a crime.

Administration- An organizational process concerned with the implementation of objectives and plans
and internal operating efficiency connotes bureaucratic structure and behaviour, relatively routine
decision-making maintenance of the internal order.

Admissible Evidence- Information or items that are allowed to be presented in a court of law during
legal proceedings.

Affidavit-A written statement of facts, sworn or affirmed to be true, often used as evidence in court
proceedings.

Aggravated Assault-A more severe form of assault, often involving a weapon or causing serious bodily
harm.

Alibi-A defense strategy asserting that the accused was elsewhere at the time the alleged crime
occurred, providing evidence to support their absence.

Apprehension- The act of detaining or taking a person into custody, typically in connection with a crime.

Arraignment-A court proceeding during which a defendant is formally charged, informed of the charges,
and asked to enter a plea.

Arresting Officer- The law enforcement officer responsible for making an arrest, carrying out the
apprehension of a suspect.

Arrest Record-A comprehensive document detailing an individual's history of arrests and related legal
encounters.

Arrest Warrant-A legal document issued by a judge authorizing the arrest of an individual.

Asset-A person, property, document, or other resource with intelligence value.

Asset Forfeiture-The legal process by which the government seizes property that has been used in, or
acquired through, criminal activities.

Auxiliary Functions- Function involving the Logistical operations of the organizations examples are
communication, maintenance , record management, supplies and equipment management.

Bail-A sum of money or other security deposited with the court to ensure the release of a defendant
from custody and their appearance at future court dates.

Body Cam-A small, wearable camera used by law enforcement officers to record interactions with the
public.

Booking-The process of recording an arrested person's information, including fingerprints and

photographs.

Bureau- The largest organic unit within a large department. The PNP is a bureau under the DILG.
Burglary- is the unauthorized entry into a building or property with the intent to commit a crime,
typically theft. It distinguishes itself from robbery by the absence of direct confrontation with the victim
during the crime.

Chain of Custody-The chronological documentation showing the collection, transfer, and analysis of
evidence.

Civil Forfeiture- A legal process that allows law enforcement to seize assets, such as money or property,
that are suspected to be involved in or derived from criminal activity. Civil forfeiture is a controversial
practice with debates about its potential for abuse.

Code of Ethics- A set of principles and guidelines outlining the expected behavior and ethical standards
for law enforcement professionals. This code serves as a moral compass for officers in their interactions
with the public and their colleagues.

Commanding Officer- An officer who is command of the department, a bureau, a division, an area or a
district.

Command Responsibility- Dictates the immediate commander shall be responsible for the effective
supervision and control of their personnel and unit.

Community Policing- A policing strategy that focuses on building positive relationships and collaboration
between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. It emphasizes proactive problem-
solving and community engagement to address public safety concerns.

Continental Theory- Policeman are regarded as servants of the higher authorities the people have no
share or have little participation with the duties nor connection with the police organization.

Covert Operation-A secret operation carried out by law enforcement or intelligence agencies.

Counter Intelligence-Activities designed to prevent or thwart espionage and intelligence gathering by

hostile entities.

Crime Scene-The location where a crime has occurred, and evidence is collected.

Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)- The systematic process of documenting, collecting, preserving, and
analyzing physical evidence at a crime scene. CSI plays a crucial role in reconstructing events and
providing forensic support for criminal investigations.

Criminal Profiling-Analyzing crime scenes and evidence to create a psychological profile of the
perpetrator.

Cybercrime- Criminal activities conducted through digital means, often involving computers and the
internet. Examples include hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. Law enforcement agencies have
specialized units to investigate and combat cybercrime.

Cyber Threat Intelligence-Information about potential cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and risks.

Dashboard Camera (Dashcam)- A video recording device installed in a law enforcement vehicle to
capture footage of traffic stops, pursuits, and other interactions. Dashcams serve as a tool for
accountability, evidence collection, and training purposes.
Deadly Force- The intentional use of force likely to cause death or serious bodily harm. Law enforcement
officers may be authorized to use deadly force in certain situations to protect themselves or others,
depending on the laws and policies of their jurisdiction.

Deep Cover Agent-An undercover operative who assumes a false identity for an extended period.

Delegation of Authority- Conferring of certain specified authority by a superior to a subordinate.

Department Rules- Established by department directors or supervisor to control the conduct of the
members of the police force.

Detective- A law enforcement officer, often with specialized training, responsible for investigating and
solving crimes. Detectives gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze information to uncover
details surrounding criminal activities.

Detention-The temporary holding of a person by law enforcement.

Dispatcher- A communication specialist who receives emergency calls and dispatches appropriate
personnel, such as police officers, firefighters, or medical professionals, to respond to incidents.
Dispatchers play a crucial role in coordinating emergency responses.

Disorderly Conduct- Behavior that disrupts public peace and order, typically involving actions such as
fighting, public intoxication, or disturbing the peace. Laws regarding disorderly conduct vary, and charges
may be brought for behavior that is considered disruptive or offensive in a public setting.

Division- The primary subdivision of a bureau.

DNA Evidence- Biological material, such as blood, hair, or saliva, containing DNA that can be analyzed for
investigative purposes. DNA evidence is often used to identify individuals, link suspects to crime scenes,
and establish relationships between people.

Domestic Violence-Violent or aggressive behavior within the home, typically involving a spouse or
partner.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)- A federal agency under the United States Department of
Justice, tasked with combating the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs and controlled substances.
The DEA conducts investigations, enforces regulations, and collaborates with other agencies to address
drug-related crimes.

Due Process- The principle that individuals are entitled to fair treatment and legal proceedings. It
ensures that government actions comply with established laws and protect individuals from arbitrary
denial of life, liberty, or property.

DUI (Driving Under the Influence)- A criminal offense involving operating a vehicle while impaired by
alcohol or drugs. DUI laws vary by jurisdiction, and enforcement typically involves sobriety tests and
chemical testing to determine blood alcohol concentration.

Duty Manual- Describes the procedures and defines the duties of officer assigned to specified post of
position.

Electronic Surveillance-Monitoring and collecting information from electronic communications.

Emergency Powers- Authority granted to law enforcement in times of crisis or disaster, allowing them to
take actions that might be restricted during normal circumstances to protect public safety.

Entrapment- A defense used when a law enforcement officer induces an individual to commit a crime
they were not predisposed to commit. It involves improper conduct by authorities.

Escalation- The process of a situation intensifying in terms of conflict or danger. Law enforcement aims
to manage and de-escalate situations to prevent unnecessary use of force.

Evidence Chain of Custody- The documented history of the possession, control, and transfer of physical
evidence during an investigation, ensuring its integrity and admissibility in court.

Evidence-Objects or information that may be used in court to prove or disprove a fact in a legal case.

Execution of Warrant- The process of law enforcement officers carrying out a legal document, such as a
search or arrest warrant, granted by a judge.

Excessive Force- The application of force beyond what is reasonably necessary to accomplish a lawful
purpose. It is a violation of individuals' constitutional rights and may lead to legal consequences for law
enforcement officers.

Exclusionary Rule- A legal principle that prohibits evidence obtained illegally or in violation of
constitutional rights from being admissible in court. It aims to deter unlawful searches and seizures.

Eyewitness Identification- The process of a witness identifying a suspect in a criminal investigation. It is

subject to challenges due to factors like memory reliability and suggestibility.

FBI (Federal Bureau Investigation) -A federal agency responsible for investigating and enforcing federal
laws.

False Arrest- Unlawfully detaining or restraining an individual without legal justification or proper
authority, often leading to civil liability for law enforcement.

Felony- A serious criminal offense typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, often
distinguished from a misdemeanor by the severity of the potential penalty.

Felonious Assault- A criminal act that involves the intentional infliction of serious bodily harm or the use
of a deadly weapon with the intent to cause harm.

Field Sobriety Test- Standardized tests administered by law enforcement officers to determine if a
person is impaired by alcohol or drugs while operating a vehicle.

Field Training Officer (FTO)-A seasoned and experienced law enforcement officer responsible for training
and mentoring newly graduated officers during their initial period on the job.

Fourth Amendment- An amendment to the U.S. Constitution protecting against unreasonable searches
and seizures, requiring warrants based on probable cause for searches, and outlining guidelines for
obtaining warrants.

Frisk- A limited pat-down or search of a person's outer clothing conducted by law enforcement officers
when there is reasonable suspicion that the individual may be armed and dangerous.
Fugitive- A person who is fleeing from custody, whether it be from law enforcement, incarceration, or
justice, often wanted for a crime.

Functional- Structure according to functions and specialized units.

Functional Principle- Refers to division of work according to type, place, time and specialization.

Gag Order- A court order prohibiting the parties involved in a case, including law enforcement, from
discussing certain information with the public or media.

Gang Task Force- A specialized law enforcement unit dedicated to addressing and combating gang-
related activities, including violence, drug trafficking, and other criminal behaviors.

GPS Tracker- The use of Global Positioning System technology to monitor the movement and location of
individuals, vehicles, or assets, often employed in law enforcement investigations.

Garrity Warning- A notification given to public employees, including law enforcement officers, advising
them that statements made during internal investigations cannot be used against them in criminal
proceedings, but failure to cooperate may result in disciplinary action.

Good Cause- A requirement in some jurisdictions for individuals to demonstrate a justifiable reason,
such as personal safety concerns, in order to obtain a concealed carry permit.

Gun Control- The set of laws and regulations that govern the possession, use, and distribution of
firearms.

Gun Registry- A centralized database that records information about firearms, including their owners, to
assist law enforcement in tracking and regulating guns.

Gun Trafficking- The illegal trade or movement of firearms across borders or within a region, often
associated with criminal enterprises.

Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO)- A legal mechanism that allows law enforcement to temporarily
restrict an individual's access to firearms if they pose a threat to themselves or others.

Grand Jury-A group of citizens who determine whether there is enough evidence to bring criminal
charges against a suspect.

Habeas Corpus-A legal order that requires a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into
court, especially to secure the person's release.

Homeland Security- A collective term for efforts and activities aimed at ensuring the security and
resilience of a nation against various threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, and other
emergencies.

Homicide-The killing of one person by another.

Hot Pursuit- The legal authority for law enforcement officers to pursue a suspect across jurisdictional
boundaries, often necessitating rapid and immediate action to apprehend the individual.
Hostage Negotiation- A specialized law enforcement tactic involving communication with individuals
who have unlawfully taken hostages, with the aim of securing the release of hostages and resolving the
situation peacefully.

Human Trafficking- The illegal trade of humans, often for forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation,
a crime that law enforcement agencies work to combat through investigations and prosecutions.

HUMINT (Human Intelligence)-Intelligence gathered from human sources, such as informants.

Impound-The act of lawfully seizing and storing vehicles, often used when a vehicle is involved in a
crime, abandoned, or violates traffic regulations. The owner typically needs to pay fees to reclaim the
impounded vehicle.

Inchoate Crime-A crime that was begun but not completed, such as an attempted robbery. Although the
intended crime may not have occurred, law enforcement can still charge individuals for their preparatory
actions.

Incident Report-An official document detailing the specifics of an occurrence that law enforcement
responds to. It typically includes information such as date, time, location, individuals involved, and a
narrative of the events.

Informant-An individual who provides law enforcement with confidential information about criminal
activities. Informants play a crucial role in investigations, but their identities are protected to ensure
their safety.

Injunction-A court order that prohibits a person or entity from engaging in a specific action. In law
enforcement, this may be used to restrain someone from, for example, approaching a certain area or
individual.

Internal Affairs-A branch within a law enforcement agency responsible for investigating allegations of
misconduct or violations of department policies involving its own officers. This ensures accountability
and maintains public trust.

Interpol (International Criminal Police Organization)- An international organization facilitating

cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

Interrogation-Questioning a suspect, witness, or person of interest by law enforcement.

Investigation-The systematic process law enforcement uses to gather, analyze, and evaluate evidence to
solve a crime. This involves interviewing witnesses, collecting physical evidence, and collaborating with
relevant agencies.

Involuntary Manslaughter-A criminal charge where an individual unintentionally causes the death of
another person due to reckless or negligent behavior. It differs from murder as it lacks the intent to kill.

Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF)-A collaborative effort between various agencies to combat terrorism.

Judicial Review-The power of a court to review and potentially invalidate government actions or laws
that it deems unconstitutional. It is a key element of the system of checks and balances.
Jurisdiction-The authority of a court or law enforcement agency to hear and make decisions on legal
matters within a particular geographic area or over specific types of cases.

Jury Selection-The process by which individuals are chosen to serve on a jury for a particular legal case.
It involves questioning potential jurors to ensure an impartial and unbiased trial.

Justice System-The collective institutions and procedures designed to enforce laws, maintain order, and
deliver justice. It includes law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections.

Justifiable Homicide-The killing of a person by a law enforcement officer in circumstances deemed

lawful, such as self-defense or defense of others. The use of lethal force is considered justifiable under
specific conditions.

Juvenile Delinquency-Criminal behavior by a minor.

K9-Unit-Law enforcement officers partnered with specially trained dogs for tasks like tracking, searching,
and apprehension.

Kidnapping-The criminal act of unlawfully and forcibly taking a person against their will, often involving
the threat of harm or actual harm to the victim.

Kiosk Identification-The use of self-service kiosks or systems to verify the identity of individuals, often
employed in police stations for tasks like checking in for appointments or registering as a sex offender.

Knife Crime-Offenses involving the use of a knife or other bladed weapon, including but not limited to,
assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, or homicide.

Knock and Announce-The legal requirement for law enforcement officers to announce their presence
and purpose before entering a premises to execute a search warrant, allowing occupants the
opportunity to comply peacefully.

Know Your Rights-An awareness of the legal rights afforded to individuals, ensuring citizens are informed
about their protections during encounters with law enforcement, such as the right to remain silent or
the right to legal representation.

Knowledge Management-The systematic process of collecting, organizing, and disseminating

information within law enforcement agencies to enhance decision-making, investigations, and overall
operational effectiveness.

Larceny-The unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of
it.

Leads-Pieces of information or evidence that may help in solving a crime or identifying a suspect.

Leave of absence- Period which an officer is excused from active duty by any valid/acceptable reason,
approved by higher authority.

Legal Attaché-An FBI representative stationed at a U.S. embassy to liaise with local authorities.

Legal Detention-The temporary holding of an individual by law enforcement, based on reasonable

suspicion or probable cause, without violating their constitutional rights.
Length of Service- The period of time that has elapsed since the oath of office was administered.

Lethal Force-The degree of force likely to cause death or serious bodily harm; its use is restricted and
regulated in law enforcement.

License Plate Recognition (LPR)- A technology that uses optical character recognition to read license
plates, aiding in vehicle identification and tracking.

Line- The oldest and simplest kind: Also called Military defined by its clear Chain of Command from the
highest to the lowest and vise versa.

Line and Staff- A combination of the line and functional kind combines the flow of information from the
line.

Lineup-A police procedure where a witness is asked to identify a suspect from a group of people,
typically presented in a line.

Miranda Rights-The rights read to a suspect during an arrest, including the right to remain silent.

Mirroring- In digital forensics, the process of creating an identical copy (mirror image) of digital evidence
to preserve its integrity for analysis without altering the original data.

Misdemeanor-A less serious criminal offense, typically punishable by fines, probation, community
service, or a short jail sentence, distinguished from felonies by their lower severity.

Missing Persons Unit-A specialized division within law enforcement dedicated to investigating cases
involving individuals who have disappeared under suspicious circumstances or are reported missing.

Modern Concept- Regard police as the first line of defence of the criminal Justice System, an organ of
crime prevention police efficiency is measured by the decreasing number of crimes broadens police
activities to cater to social services.

Modus Operandi (MO)- The characteristic method of operation or pattern of behavior associated with a
particular criminal, often used by investigators to link crimes and identify potential suspects.

Motor Vehicle Stop-An encounter initiated by law enforcement where a vehicle is pulled over for a
suspected traffic violation or other concerns, allowing officers to conduct inquiries and ensure
compliance with laws.

Mutual Aid Agreement-A formal arrangement between law enforcement agencies or jurisdictions to
provide assistance, resources, and support to one another during emergencies, large-scale events, or
investigations.

NAPOLCOM MC No.95-03- Institutionalization of the doctrine of command responsibility at all levels of

command in the PNP.

Narcotics-Drugs, typically illegal substances.

Narcotics Interdiction-Efforts to prevent the trafficking of illegal drugs.

National Crime Information Center (NCIC)- A centralized database in the United States that provides law
enforcement agencies with information about stolen property, missing persons, and criminals.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ)- A research agency of the U.S. Department of Justice that develops and
evaluates technology and practices for law enforcement and criminal justice.

Negligence-Failure to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar
circumstances, often leading to legal liability.

Nolle Prosequi-Latin term meaning "we shall no longer prosecute," used to indicate that the prosecution
is dropping charges against a defendant.

Nonfeasance-The failure to perform a required duty or obligation, often in a situation where there is a
legal or ethical responsibility to act.

No-Knock Warrant-A search warrant that allows law enforcement to enter a premises without prior
notification or announcement, often used in situations where announcing their presence could
jeopardize the investigation.

Non-Lethal Force-The use of force by law enforcement that is unlikely to cause death or serious injury,
such as Tasers, pepper spray, or batons.

Oath of Office-A solemn pledge taken by law enforcement officers, affirming their commitment to
uphold and protect the Constitution, enforce laws, and faithfully execute their duties. The oath typically
includes a promise to serve with integrity, honor, and without bias.

Obstruction of Justice-The act of intentionally interfering with the judicial process, law enforcement
investigations, or the administration of law. This can include actions such as witness tampering,
destroying evidence, or hindering the work of law enforcement officers.

Off Duty- The nature which the police officer is free from the specific routine duty.

Officer-involved shooting-A situation where a law enforcement officer discharges their firearm.

Officer De La Paix- A French term which claimed to be the origin of the term police officer.

Old Concept- Police service gives the impression of being merely a suppressive machinery.

On Duty- The period when an officer is actively engaged in the performance of his duty.

Operation-A planned set of activities designed to achieve specific objectives.

Order- An instruction given by a rank officer to a subordinate, either general order, special or personal.

Organization- A group of persons working together for a common goal or objectives a form of human
association for the attainment of a goal or objective the process of identifying and grouping the work to
be performed, defining and delegating responsibility relationships for the purpose of enabling people
work effectively.

Organized Crime-Criminal activities carried out by organized groups, often for financial gain.

Overwatch-A tactical term referring to a position or team tasked with providing support and cover for
other law enforcement personnel during operations. Overwatch ensures the safety and effectiveness of
the primary units by observing and responding to potential threats.
Patrol-The routine presence and surveillance conducted by law enforcement officers in a designated
area to prevent and deter criminal activity, maintain public order, and respond to emergencies.

Patrol Officer- A uniformed officer responsible for general policing and patrolling a specific area.

Perjury-The act of deliberately providing false information or lying while under oath, typically during
court proceedings or in sworn affidavits.

Plea Bargain-An agreement between the prosecution and the defendant where the defendant agrees to
plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence, avoiding a trial.

Police- The person who enforced the law.

Police Academy-A training facility where individuals undergo education and training to become law
enforcement officers, covering topics such as criminal law, self-defense, and community relations.

Police Administration- The process involved in ensuring strict compliance, proper obedience of laws and
related statutes focuses on the policing processes or how law enforcement agencies are organized and
managed in order to achieve the goals of law enforcement most effectively, efficiently and productively.

Police Organization- A group of trained personnel in the field of public safety administration engaged in
the achievement of goals and objectives

Police Commissioner-The highest-ranking officer in a police department, responsible for overall

leadership, policy development, and strategic planning.

Police Report-A documented record created by law enforcement officers detailing the facts,
circumstances, and observations of an incident, often used as evidence in legal proceedings.

Polygraph Test-A lie detector test that measures physiological responses (such as heart rate, blood
pressure, and respiratory rate) to assess the truthfulness of a person's statements.

Preliminary Hearing-A legal proceeding held before a judge to determine whether there is enough
evidence to proceed to trial. It allows the defense to challenge the evidence presented by the
prosecution.

Principle of Balance- States that the application of principles must be balanced to ensure the
effectiveness of the structure in meeting organization’s objectives.

Principle of Delegation- By result states that authority delegated should be adequate to ensure the
ability to accomplish expected results.

Principle of Flexibility- Which means that the more flexible the organization, the more it can fulfil its
purpose.

Principle of Organizational Efficiency- Organization Structure is effective if it is structured in such a way

to aid the accomplishment of the organization’s objective with a minimum cost.

Principle of Unity of Objectives- An organization is effective if it is enables the individual to contribute to

the organization’s objectives.
Probable Cause- The reasonable belief that a person has committed or is about to commit a crime,
justifying a law enforcement officer's actions such as arrest or search.

Qualified Immunity-Quarantine-A legal doctrine that shields government officials, including law
enforcement officers, from being held personally liable for actions taken during the course of their
duties, unless they violate clearly established constitutional rights.

Quarantine-In law enforcement, quarantine refers to the isolation of individuals, often during public
health emergencies, to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. This may involve restricting
movement or activities.

Quarterly Review-A regular assessment conducted by law enforcement agencies to evaluate their
performance, address challenges, and plan for improvements. Quarterly reviews help ensure
accountability and effectiveness.

Quash-To nullify or suppress a legal proceeding or subpoena. Law enforcement may seek to quash a
warrant if it was improperly obtained or if there are legal reasons to invalidate it.

Questioning-The act of formally interrogating or interviewing individuals during an investigation. Law

enforcement officers often question witnesses, victims, and suspects to gather information and
evidence.

Racial Profiling- The practice of targeting individuals for suspicion of crime based on their race, ethnicity,
or national origin rather than evidence of criminal behavior.

Ranking Officer- The officer who has the more senior ranking higher rank in a team or group.

Recidivism- The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend, measured by the re-arrest, reconviction, or
reincarceration of an individual after their initial criminal conviction.

Reasonable Suspicion- A standard of proof used by law enforcement to justify a brief investigative stop
or detention. It requires specific and articulable facts that would lead a reasonable person to believe that
criminal activity may be occurring.

Reckless Endangerment- A criminal offense involving conduct that disregards the safety of others,
creating a substantial risk of harm, without regard for the consequences.

Report- Usually a written communications unless otherwise specifies to be verbal reports, verbal reports
should be confirmed by written communication.

Restorative Justice- An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal
behavior through cooperative processes that include all stakeholders, emphasizing rehabilitation and
reconciliation rather than punishment.

Riot-A violent disturbance.

Riot Control- The measures taken by law enforcement to manage and control violent crowds or riots,
often involving the use of non-lethal weapons, crowd dispersal techniques, and strategic planning.

Robbery- A criminal act involving the use of force, intimidation, or threat to take property or belongings
from another person, typically in a direct confrontation.
Scalar Principle- Shows the vertical hierarchy of the organization which defines an unbroken chain of
units from top to bottom describing explicitly the flow the flow of authority.

Search Warrant- A legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement to conduct a
search of a specified location, looking for evidence related to a crime.

Search and Seizure- A legal concept referring to the authority of law enforcement to search individuals
or their property and seize evidence with a warrant or under specific circumstances outlined by law.

Section- Functional units within a particular division. This is necessary for specialization.

Seizure- The act of lawfully taking possession of property or assets by law enforcement, often in
connection with a criminal investigation. Seizures can include assets, drugs, or other items relevant to a
case.

Sentencing- The legal process during which a judge determines the punishment or penalty for a person
convicted of a crime, taking into consideration various factors, such as the nature of the crime and the
defendant's criminal history.

Service Unit- Those that are perform an auxiliary function examples are communications, records and
management.

Sick Leave- Period which an officer is excused from the active duty by the reason of illness or injury.

Span of Control- The maximum number of subordinates that a superior can effectively supervise.

Specialization- The assignment of the particular personnel to particular tasks which are highly technical
and require special skills and training.

Special Duty- The police service, its nature which requires that the officer be excused from the
performance of his active regular duty.

Stakeout- A covert observation of a location, building, or person, typically by law enforcement, to gather
information and evidence related to criminal activities.

Statute- A written law passed by a legislative body, either at the federal, state, or local level, that
outlines specific prohibitions, requirements, or regulations related to various aspects of society, including
criminal behavior.

Superior Officer- One having supervisory responsibilities either temporary or permanently, over officer
or lower rank.

Surveillance- The monitoring of individuals, groups, or locations to gather information, often using
electronic devices or undercover agents, for the purpose of preventing or investigating criminal activities.

Suspect- A person believed by law enforcement to be involved in, or have knowledge of, criminal activity.
However, being a suspect does not imply guilt.

Suspension- A consequence of an act which temporarily deprives an officer from the privilege of
performing his duties as result of violating directives or other department regulations.
SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics)-Specialized units within law enforcement trained for high-risk
situations.

Sworn Officers- All personnel of the police department who have oath and who possess the power to
arrest.

Tactical Unit- A specialized group within law enforcement trained to handle high-risk situations, such as
hostage rescues or armed confrontations, using advanced tactics and weaponry.

Testimony- Oral or written statements given under oath by witnesses, victims, or experts during legal
proceedings, providing evidence or information relevant to a case.

Traffic Stop-When law enforcement pulls over a vehicle for a suspected traffic violation.

Traffic Violation- Any breach of traffic laws, such as speeding, running red lights, or failure to yield,
typically resulting in fines, points on a driver's license, or other penalties.

Transparency- The principle of openness and visibility in law enforcement practices, policies, and
decision-making processes, allowing the public to hold agencies accountable and build trust.

Trespassing- Unlawfully entering or remaining on another person's property without permission, often
subject to criminal charges or civil penalties.

Units- Functional group within a section where further specialization is needed.

Unity of Command- Dictates that there should only be ONE MAN Commanding the unit to ensure
uniformity in the executions of orders.

Use of Force-The level of physical coercion deemed necessary by law enforcement officers.

Vandalism-Willful destruction of property.

Vehicular Pursuit- The active pursuit of a suspect using a law enforcement vehicle, typically initiated in
response to a crime or traffic violation. Protocols and regulations govern the conduct of vehicular
pursuits to balance public safety with the apprehension of suspects.

Verification of Identity- The process by which law enforcement confirms a person's identity through
various means such as identification documents, biometrics, or other reliable sources. It is crucial for
maintaining public safety, conducting investigations, and ensuring legal compliance.

Victimology- The study of victims of crimes, focusing on their experiences, vulnerabilities, and the
impact of victimization on individuals and society. Law enforcement utilizes victimology to enhance
victim support services and develop crime prevention strategies.

Virtual Crime- Criminal activities conducted in the virtual or online space, including but not limited to
cyberbullying, hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. Law enforcement agencies adapt their strategies
to combat virtual crime as technology evolves.

Violation of Probation- Occurs when an individual on probation fails to comply with the court-ordered
conditions. Law enforcement may arrest the probationer for violating probation terms, leading to
potential legal consequences such as imprisonment or additional conditions.
Warrant-A written order issued by a judge authorizing specific law enforcement actions.

White-Collar Crime- Non-violent, financially motivated crimes typically committed by individuals,

businesses, or government professionals. Examples include fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and
cybercrime. Law enforcement agencies may have specialized units to investigate and combat white-collar
crime.

Wiretap- A legal authorization granted by a court that allows law enforcement to intercept and monitor
private communications, such as phone conversations or electronic messages. Typically used in
investigations involving serious crimes, wiretaps are subject to strict regulations to ensure privacy rights
are upheld.

Workplace Violence- Acts or threats of physical violence, intimidation, or harassment that occur within a
workplace setting. Law enforcement may investigate and address workplace violence incidents to ensure
the safety of employees and prevent harm.

Xenophobia- An irrational fear or dislike of people from other countries.

Year-and-a day Rule-A legal principle, often used in determining homicide cases, that historically
required a death to occur within a year and a day of the injurious act for the accused to be held
criminally responsible.

Yellow Alert- A cautionary signal used in law enforcement, often in missing person cases or situations
where the well-being of an individual is uncertain but not necessarily indicative of foul play.

Yellow Card System- A system used in some law enforcement agencies to issue warnings or citations for
minor offenses, with the understanding that repeated violations may result in more severe
consequences.

Yield-To comply with a lawful order, often in traffic situations.

Yield to Pedestrian- The legal requirement for drivers to give the right of way to pedestrians at
crosswalks or designated crossing areas.

Youth Advocate Program- A program designed to provide support and guidance to at-risk youth, often
partnering with law enforcement to prevent juvenile delinquency and address underlying issues.

Youthful Court- A specialized court that deals with cases involving juvenile offenders. These courts focus
on rehabilitation and education rather than punishment.

Youthful Offender- A legal classification for individuals, typically between the ages of 16 and 21, who
commit crimes. Youthful offenders may receive special considerations in the criminal justice system,
aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Zealous Prosecution- A term describing an excessively enthusiastic or fervent approach to prosecuting a

case, sometimes to the extent that it raises ethical or legal concerns.

Zero Tolerance-A policy enforcing strict consequences without exception.

Ziptie Restraints- Plastic ties used for quickly and temporarily restraining individuals. Often employed by
law enforcement in situations where handcuffs may not be readily available.
Zone Policing- A law enforcement strategy where an area is divided into zones, and officers are assigned
to specific zones to enhance community policing and improve response times.

Zoning Laws- Regulations that control the use of land within a specific jurisdiction, dictating what types
of structures or activities are allowed in different areas. Enforced by local law enforcement.