Unit 5: Written Examination Preparation

Conducting The Preliminary Search

It is normally a good idea to wear your headgear while conducting the search for the prowler. The advantage of the caller and other officers being able to identify you quickly far outweighs the disadvantage of the suspect being able to do the same. As you walk along the side of the caller’s house, pass beneath the windows. This prevents you from being silhouetted by the light and also prevents you from being shot by a frightened and anxious caller.

Both officers moving along opposite sides of the house should stop when they reach the rear comers of the house. When each officer has made visual contact with the other, the officer who initially responded to the call should tum his flashlight on and proceed out into the backyard. The flashlight should be held in the hand opposite the service revolver, at arm’s length to the side, and slightly out in front. By holding the flashlight in this position, the officer does not illuminate himself and if the prowler shoots at the light, the officer is in less danger ofbeing hit. The flashlight should be used in a back-and-forth sweeping motion. The officer should be particularly conscious of any footprints outlined in the wet grass. These footprints may indicate the prowler’s location and/or direction of travel.

In some cases, the rear yard of the caller’s residence may be fenced. If the yard is fenced, the officer nearest the gate leading into the yard should conduct the search. The officer nearest the gate leading into a fenced backyard conducts the search.

Unless unusual circumstances prevail, weapons should not be drawn while searching for a prowler.

Prowling is a misdemeanor and often involves a juvenile suspect. Having weapons drawn invites the possibility of an accidental shooting.

When the preliminary search is completed, the first officer should contact the caller whils the follow up officer waits quietly in the shadows where he is able to see the rear and side yards. It will usually be too dark for the officer to see well, but he should be able to hear any noises if the prowler decides to move from his hiding place.

The first officer should quickly notify the caller that the police are there. He should find out exactly what the caller saw or heard. If a description of the prowler is available, it should be telephoned in to the dispatcher so that he can radio it to other officers in the area.