Police Sergeant Practice Exam

What best illustrates a completed search of an area during an active investigation?

1. Securing the area with marked vehicles

2. Documentation of evidence found

3. Notifying dispatch of all suspicious activity

4. Making the area inaccessible with furniture

The correct answer is: Making the area inaccessible with furniture

Making an area inaccessible with furniture is the option that best illustrates a completed search of an area during an active investigation. This action suggests that investigators have taken steps to ensure that no one can enter or tamper with the scene after a thorough examination has been conducted. It indicates that the investigators have identified the boundaries of the search area, signifying that they are finished with their investigative work there. The physical act of obstructing access also provides a barrier that helps preserve potential evidence and prevents contamination of the crime scene. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the investigation and ensuring that any evidence collected is not disturbed after the investigation has been concluded. In contrast, simply securing the area with marked vehicles does not necessarily indicate that the search is completed; it could mean the area is still under investigation. Documenting evidence found is essential during the search process, but it does not indicate that the search is finished. Notifying dispatch of suspicious activity is an important step, but it also does not pertain to the completion of a search. These actions are part of the ongoing investigation rather than the final steps that illustrate a completed search.