AZ POST flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Probable cause

Facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable officer to believe an offense has been committed and that a specific person committed it.

Reasonable suspicion

Specific, articulable facts that justify a brief investigative detention; it is more than a hunch but less than probable cause.

Miranda custody test

Custody exists when a reasonable person would not feel free to leave; interrogation includes words or actions reasonably likely to elicit an incriminating response.

Terry frisk

A limited pat-down of outer clothing for weapons, permitted when an officer reasonably suspects a detained person is armed and dangerous.

Exclusionary rule

Evidence obtained through unconstitutional police conduct is generally inadmissible; exceptions include independent source, inevitable discovery, and attenuation.

Arizona felony classes

Arizona felonies are classified from Class 1 through Class 6; the class sets the statutory sentencing range and available penalties.

Objective reasonableness

Graham v. Connor standard judging force by what a reasonable officer would do under the totality of circumstances, not with hindsight.

Move Over law

Arizona drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights must move over if safe or slow down and proceed cautiously.

Implied consent

Arizona law deems drivers arrested for DUI to consent to specified tests; refusal can lead to license suspension and hearing procedures.

DUI per se

Driving with a BAC at or above 0.08 for adults, 0.04 for commercial drivers, or any detectable alcohol for drivers under 21.

Domestic violence arrest

Arizona officers shall arrest when probable cause exists and there is physical injury or a weapon was used or displayed; otherwise arrest may be discretionary.

Traffic stop positioning

Use an offset position and safe location, advise dispatch of location and plate, and create a buffer from passing traffic.

High-risk stop

A coordinated stop using cover, clear one-at-a-time commands, and lethal coverage before approaching a potentially armed subject.

Field interview documentation

Record time, location, identity, demeanor, statements, and the specific facts that supported reasonable suspicion for the contact.

Chain of custody

A documented record of each transfer and storage of evidence, showing who handled it and when, to establish integrity and prevent tampering.

Crime scene sequence

Secure the scene, render aid, then photograph before moving items, document with notes and sketches, and collect evidence in logical order.

Biological evidence packaging

Air-dry biological evidence, package it in breathable containers, and avoid heat to preserve DNA and prevent degradation.

Hearsay exception

An out-of-court statement offered for its truth may be admissible under exceptions such as excited utterance, present sense impression, or medical diagnosis.

Show-up identification

A prompt identification near the scene with an admonition that the subject may or may not be the suspect and identification is not required.

SARA model

Scanning, Analysis, Response, and Assessment: a problem-solving framework for identifying and evaluating recurring community problems.

Active listening

Using open-ended questions, paraphrasing, reflecting feelings, summarizing, and silence to encourage the speaker and verify understanding.

Procedural justice

Treating people with voice, neutrality, respect, and trustworthy motives, which increases perceived legitimacy of police actions.

De-escalation

Using time, distance, cover, communication, and resource coordination to reduce the intensity of an encounter when feasible.

Crisis communication

Using a calm tone, simple sentences, one speaker, and non-argumentative responses to engage a person in crisis.

Victim-centered response

Prioritizing victim safety through safety planning, documentation of prior incidents, protective order information, and resource referrals.

ADA interpreter rule

Agencies must provide effective communication for deaf or hard-of-hearing persons, using qualified interpreters or auxiliary aids rather than relying on family.

Reactionary gap

The distance needed to perceive and respond to a sudden attack; a person with an edged weapon can close about 21 feet in roughly 1.5 seconds.

Contact and cover

One officer communicates and controls the subject while the other provides security and overwatch; roles are assigned before contact.

Handcuff double lock

Engage the double-lock mechanism and check tightness and circulation after cuffing, searching before and after for weapons.

Cover versus concealment

Cover stops bullets; concealment only hides. Choose cover and avoid silhouetting behind vehicles or unverified barriers.

Tourniquet use

Place the tourniquet high and tight on the limb, tighten until bleeding stops, and record the application time for medical personnel.

Stress response

Acute stress may cause tachycardia, auditory exclusion, tunnel vision, and fine-motor degradation; breathing and training help manage these effects.