Citizen Encounters - Biased Policing 7/16/2024

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the policy established by the Escambia County Sheriff's Office?

To patrol proactively and enforce criminal laws

To apprehend suspected criminals

To detect and prevent crime

To protect the Constitutional rights of all people (correct)

What can sustained complaints of biased policing lead to?

A promotion

A written reprimand

Disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal (correct)

A verbal warning

What are deputies prohibited from taking during law enforcement actions?

Racially motivated stops

Gender-based detentions

Unbiased actions

Biased law enforcement action (correct)

What is the main reason deputies initiate contact with citizens?

To gather information and detect crime Signup and view all the answers

What is required of deputies when identifying individuals during stops or detentions?

To be as accurate as possible when identifying the individual's actual or perceived race, ethnicity, gender, and/or sexual orientation Signup and view all the answers

What is the expectation for deputies during citizen encounters?

To ensure no encounter will be bias-based Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of engaging in biased policing?

Disciplinary action Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy?

To protect the Constitutional rights of all people Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of deliberate misrepresentation of information?

Dismissal Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a consensual encounter?

To gather information Signup and view all the answers

During a consensual encounter, what is the citizen's right?

To not be detained Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a 'Stop' in a Stop and Frisk?

To identify the subject and explore the reason for the deputy's initial concern Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy seize an object during a frisk?

If the object is immediately identified by touch/feel as a weapon or contraband Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy use restraints during a Stop and Frisk?

If the deputy can clearly articulate the 'immediate threat to officer safety or risk of flight' Signup and view all the answers

What is required if restraints are used during a Stop and Frisk incident that does not result in arrest?

An offense report detailing the reason for the Stop and Frisk Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a frisk?

To ensure the deputy's safety Signup and view all the answers

During a consensual encounter, what can a citizen do?

Walk away Signup and view all the answers

What happens if reasonable suspicion or probable cause develops during a consensual encounter?

The deputy should respond accordingly Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended first step when conducting a traffic stop?

Give a greeting to the driver Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to describe the vehicle's actions instead of the driver's actions when stating the reason for the stop?

To reduce tension and focus on the specific behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of asking a motorist if they have a reason for the violation?

To give the driver a chance to explain themselves and reduce tension Signup and view all the answers

What information must be included in the Traffic Stop Data Report (TSDR)?

The driver's race, gender, age, and reason for the stop Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances should a search of a vehicle be conducted?

With a warrant, a legally recognized exception, or voluntary consent Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do if a driver consents to a search but refuses to sign the form?

Fill out the form anyway and indicate 'consented to search but refused to sign' Signup and view all the answers

When should a patrol vehicle's video camera be activated during a traffic stop?

Prior to the stop and remain activated until the person is released Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do with a motorist who has been cited or warned after the traffic stop?

Release them immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended closing statement to a cooperative motorist?

Thank you for your cooperation Signup and view all the answers

What can a person who believes they have been stopped and/or searched due to biased policing do?

File a complaint with the agency Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Crime Analysis Unit in relation to biased policing complaints?

To forward an additional copy of complaints involving alleged biased policing Signup and view all the answers

How often will deputies receive training on biased policing issues?

Biennially Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Community Oriented Policing Unit?

To educate the community on biased policing issues and measures to reduce them Signup and view all the answers

What is the deadline for the annual report of biased policing complaints to be sent to the Sheriff?

January 31 of each calendar year Signup and view all the answers

What action will supervisors take if they identify a policy violation?

They will file a formal complaint depending on the circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of discriminatory enforcement practices?

It alienates citizens and fosters distrust of law enforcement Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between criminal profiling and biased policing?

One is an investigative tool, and the other is a discriminatory practice Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of requesting a qualified interpreter under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

To communicate with individuals who have a disability or language barrier Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a sustained complaint of biased policing?

Disciplinary action may be taken, up to and including dismissal Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of periodically reviewing in-car video tapes of stops and reports filed on stops/arrests?

To monitor field activity for patterns or practices of biased policing Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy regarding citizen encounters?

To ensure respect and dignity towards all individuals, regardless of their background Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of a deputy's responsibility during citizen encounters?

To accurately identify the race, ethnicity, gender, and/or sexual orientation of individuals stopped Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of biased policing in the Escambia County Sheriff's Office?

Disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of deputies during proactive patrolling?

Initiating contact with citizens to gather information Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited in law enforcement actions, according to the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy?

Biased law enforcement action towards any person Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying principle of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy regarding citizen encounters?

Respecting the Constitutional rights of all people Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy on biased policing?

Prohibiting biased policing in all law enforcement actions Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office policy on biased policing?

Reduced instances of biased policing in law enforcement actions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Community Oriented Policing Unit?

Educating the community about biased policing and ECSO efforts to reduce it Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of deliberately misrepresenting information during a traffic stop?

Not specified in the policy Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach when stating the reason for the stop to a motorist?

Describe the vehicle's actions Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do after completing any necessary paperwork during a traffic stop?

Inform the motorist of the action being taken and what they must do as a result Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for supervisors who identify a policy violation?

Take appropriate action, from counseling to filing a formal complaint Signup and view all the answers

Why should a deputy ask a motorist if they have a reason for the violation?

To give the motorist an opportunity to 'have their say' Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the annual report compiled by the Crime Analysis Unit?

To provide statistical summaries of biased policing complaints to the Sheriff Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of supervisors periodically reviewing in-car video tapes?

To monitor for biased policing practices Signup and view all the answers

What information must be included in the Traffic Stop Data Report (TSDR)?

Driver's race, gender, and age Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome of discriminatory enforcement practices?

Alienation of citizens and potential constitutional violations Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do if a driver consents to a search but refuses to sign the form?

Fill out the form anyway and indicate 'consented to search but refused to sign' Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Crime Analysis Unit in relation to biased policing complaints?

Compiling statistical summaries of biased policing complaints Signup and view all the answers

When should a patrol vehicle's video camera be activated during a traffic stop?

Prior to the stop Signup and view all the answers

What should deputies do when they encounter individuals with disabilities or language barriers during law enforcement actions?

Request the services of a qualified interpreter Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do with a motorist who has been cited or warned after the traffic stop?

Let them go Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between criminal profiling and biased policing?

Criminal profiling is an accepted investigative tool, while biased policing is a discriminatory practice Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended closing statement to a cooperative motorist?

Please drive carefully, your safety is important to us Signup and view all the answers

What is the deadline for the annual report on biased policing complaints to be submitted to the Sheriff?

January 31 of each calendar year Signup and view all the answers

What can a person who believes they have been stopped and/or searched due to biased policing do?

File a complaint with the agency Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a 'frisk' during a Stop and Frisk?

To ensure the deputy's safety Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do after completing a traffic stop?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

During a consensual encounter, what happens if a citizen chooses to walk away?

The citizen may not be detained Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of deliberate misrepresentation of information?

Disciplinary action up to and including dismissal Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy initiate contact with a citizen?

When circumstances reasonably indicate that the person has committed, is committing, or is about to commit a crime/infraction Signup and view all the answers

What happens if reasonable suspicion or probable cause develops during a consensual encounter?

The deputy should respond accordingly Signup and view all the answers

What is required of a deputy when using restraints during a Stop and Frisk?

The deputy must articulate the immediate threat to officer safety or risk of flight Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a Stop and Frisk incident does not result in arrest and restraints were used?

An offense report will be generated detailing the reason for the Stop and Frisk, the immediate threat to the deputy, or risk of flight, and when the restraints were removed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a consensual encounter?

To facilitate the performance of their duties Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy consider when deciding whether to frisk a subject?

The citizen's attitude or actions Signup and view all the answers

What can a deputy do if they identify an object as a weapon or contraband during a pat-down/frisk?

Seize the object Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Purpose and Policy

The purpose of the order is to prevent biased policing and protect the Constitutional rights of all people.
The policy is to treat each person with respect and dignity, without any form of biased policing.

Encounters

Deputies will patrol proactively and stop or detain citizens in accordance with the law.
No encounter will be bias-based.
Deputies are prohibited from taking biased law enforcement action towards any person.

Consensual Encounters

Deputies may approach citizens in public areas to gather information.
Citizens have the right to leave and are under no obligation to speak to the deputy.
Reasonable suspicion or probable cause may develop during the encounter.

Stop and Frisk

Law enforcement officers may initiate contact with citizens when circumstances reasonably indicate a crime has been committed.
The "Stop" is a temporary detention to identify the subject and explore the reason for the initial concern.
The "Frisk" is a limited search performed for the deputy's protection.

Use of Restraints

The use of restraints is not a routine practice during Stop and Frisk incidents.
Restraints may be used if there is an immediate threat to officer safety or risk of flight.

Traffic Enforcement

Deputies should greet citizens, identify themselves, and state the reason for the stop.
Deputies should ask for identification and required documents.
Deputies should inform citizens of the action being taken and what they need to do.

Complaints and Corrective Actions

Citizens who believe they have been stopped or searched due to biased policing may file a complaint.
Sustained complaints can lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Training

Deputies will be instructed in biased policing issues and legal aspects.
Training will be conducted at a minimum of biennial.

Annual Review

The Crime Analysis Unit will compile a statistical summary of all complaints and documented concerns of biased policing.
The report will be made available to citizens via a public records request.

Supervisor Responsibility

Supervisors will review in-car video tapes and reports.
Supervisors will monitor field activity for patterns or practices that could indicate discriminatory treatment.

Deputy Responsibilities

Law enforcement officers should use skills developed through observation, training, and experience to identify suspicious circumstances.
Deputies should afford all citizens Constitutional and fundamental rights to equal protection under the law.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Members should request the services of a qualified interpreter when coming into contact with individuals who have a disability or impairment.
The ADA Coordinator will perform duties and responsibilities according to federal guidelines.

Purpose and Policy

The purpose of the order is to establish guidelines for preventing biased policing.
The policy is to protect the Constitutional rights of all people, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, gender identity, age, disability, political status, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, physical handicap, religion, or any other identifiable group.

Procedures

Encounters

Deputies will patrol proactively, investigate suspicious persons and circumstances, and stop or detain citizens in accordance with the law.
No encounter will be bias-based.
Deputies are prohibited from taking biased law enforcement action toward any person.

Consensual Encounters

Deputies may approach citizens on public streets or in public areas to gather information.
Citizens have the right to leave and are under no obligation to speak to the deputy.
Deputies must articulate the reason for the pursuit if a foot chase occurs.

Stop and Frisk

Law enforcement officers may initiate contact with citizens when circumstances reasonably indicate they have committed, are committing, or are about to commit a crime.
The stop is a temporary detention to identify the subject and explore the reason for the deputy's concern.
The frisk is a limited search for the deputy's protection.

Use of Restraints

The ECSO does not consider the use of restraints as a routine practice during Stop and Frisk incidents.
Deputies may use restraints if they can articulate an immediate threat to officer safety or risk of flight.

Traffic Enforcement

Deputies will develop individualized approaches to minimize conflict during deputy/violator contacts.
Guidelines for traffic stops include:
- Giving a greeting and identifying themselves.
- Stating the reason for the stop.
- Defusing tension by asking about the reason for the violation.
- Politely asking for identification and documents.
- Informing the driver of the action taken and what they must do as a result.
- Ensuring the driver can merge safely back into traffic.

Complaints/Corrective Actions

Persons who believe they have been stopped and/or searched as a result of biased policing may file a complaint with the agency.
Sustained complaints of biased policing can lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Training

Deputies will be instructed in biased policing issues, including legal aspects.
Training will be conducted at a minimum of biennial and will consist of Safe and Legal Traffic Stops (S.A.L.T.S.) and other human diversity issues.

Annual Review

The Crime Analysis Unit will compile a statistical summary of all complaints and documented concerns of biased policing for the year.
The report will be sent to the Sheriff by January 31 of each calendar year and made available to the public upon request.

Supervisor Responsibility

Supervisors will periodically review in-car video tapes of stops and reports filed on stops/arrests.
Supervisors will monitor field activity for patterns or practices that could indicate discriminatory treatment.
Supervisors will take appropriate action when policy violations occur.

Deputy Responsibilities

Deputies must use their skills to identify suspicious circumstances and act according to the situation.
Discriminatory enforcement practices can lead to allegations of constitutional and civil rights violations.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Members coming into contact with individuals who are regarded as having a disability or impairment will request the services of a qualified interpreter.
The Administrative Division OIC or designee will perform the function as the ADA Coordinator.

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Description

This quiz covers the purpose and policy of preventing biased policing and protecting Constitutional rights. It outlines the guidelines for encounters and consensual encounters between law enforcement and citizens.