NYPD Sergeant 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 person to believe a crime has been committed and the person to be arrested committed it.

Reasonable Suspicion

Specific and articulable facts that suggest criminal activity is afoot, justifying a Terry stop.

Stop and Frisk

A brief detention based on reasonable suspicion; a frisk is a pat-down for weapons if the officer reasonably believes the person is armed and dangerous.

Miranda Warnings

Required advisement of rights before custodial interrogation: right to remain silent, anything said can be used against you, right to counsel, and appointed counsel if indigent.

Search Incident to Arrest

A warrantless search of the arrestee's person and the immediate area within their reach, for weapons and evidence, incident to a lawful arrest.

Chain of Custody

The documented chronological record of evidence handling, from seizure to court, ensuring integrity and preventing tampering.

DD5

The NYPD report form used to record most incidents; supervisors review for accuracy and completeness before approval.

Command Log

A daily record maintained by the desk officer or supervisor documenting significant events, personnel changes, and actions taken during a tour.

Roll Call

A briefing at the start of a tour where supervisors inspect uniforms, assign duties, and inform officers of crime patterns and conditions.

Use of Force Report

Required documentation when an officer uses force beyond compliant handcuffing; supervisors review and ensure medical aid and notification.

Disciplinary Matrix

A guideline in the Patrol Guide that sets presumptive penalties for specific offenses based on severity and prior record.

SARA Model

A problem-solving method: Scanning, Analysis, Response, Assessment, used to address recurring community issues.

Incident Command System

A standardized management structure for emergencies, establishing roles like incident commander, operations, and planning.

Active Shooter Response

First responders move quickly to neutralize the threat; supervisors coordinate resources and establish perimeters.

Domestic Incident Report

Required form for domestic violence cases; officers must provide victim rights information and document the incident.

Terry Stop

A brief investigative detention based on reasonable suspicion, permitting a frisk if the officer believes the person is armed.

Burglary

Unlawful entry into a building with intent to commit a crime therein; possession of burglar's tools is a separate offense.

Robbery

Forcible stealing; requires force or threat of force and is a felony.

Assault Degrees

Third degree: causing physical injury; second degree: with a deadly weapon or serious physical injury; first degree: serious physical injury with a deadly weapon.

Search Warrant Execution

Must knock and announce unless exigent circumstances; warrant must be executed within 10 days of issuance.

Performance Evaluation

Annual assessment of an officer's performance based on documented observations and objective criteria, including commendations and deficiencies.

Progressive Discipline

A disciplinary approach that escalates from verbal counseling to written reprimand, suspension, and termination based on severity and record.

Command Discipline

A minor disciplinary action imposed by a supervisor for violations, such as a caution or small penalty; more serious matters go to the department advocate.

Community Policing

A philosophy where officers engage with community members to build trust and address crime and quality-of-life issues collaboratively.

Cultural Awareness

The ability to interact respectfully with people of diverse backgrounds, ensuring fair and impartial treatment.

Media Relations

Only authorized personnel may speak to the media; supervisors coordinate with the press office to ensure accurate information.

Uniform Inspection

A supervisor's check of officers' uniforms and equipment at roll call to ensure compliance with regulations.

Vertical Patrol

Officers patrol building interiors, checking rooftops, stairwells, and hallways for conditions and criminal activity.

Scene Preservation

Securing a crime scene to prevent contamination and loss of evidence, including establishing perimeters and a crime scene log.

Confidential Informant

A person who provides information to police; supervisors must ensure proper registration and control, and unauthorized contact is prohibited.

Emergency Mobilization

The department's plan for deploying personnel during emergencies; supervisors ensure officers are aware and follow it.

Critical Incident Stress

Psychological distress following a traumatic event; supervisors ensure debriefing and access to counseling for involved members.