Unit 5: Written Examination Preparation

Recontacting The Caller

After the thorough search of the area has been completed, the caller should be informed of the results of the search.

Often, the cause of the complaint is nothing more than a cat knocking over a garbage can, the wind blowing a gate or door, or a tree limb or bush scraping along the side of the house. If the caller can be assured that the source of the problem has been identified, she will be able to rest easier and the department will have made a favorable contact. If the caller is extremely nervous and upset, you may wish to assure her that frequent checks will be made to discourage the prowler from returning.

If it appears that there has actually been a prowler in the yard, the caller should be asked to assist in apprehending the prowler should he return. The caller should be advised that she can assist by following three simple rules. 

1. If the prowler is sighted, do not show alarm or indicate that his presence is known.

2. Walk casually to another room (preferably one that is dark) and telephone the police dispatcher.

3. Resume all normal activities to keep the prowler distracted until the police arrive.

The caller should not be encouraged to acquire a firearm for protection. If you believe that the prowler may still be hiding close by, make it obvious that you are leaving by slamming the car door, turning on the headlights, and accelerating rapidly away from the curb. Shortly later, return quietly with the vehicle lights turned off and park in the shadows at least a half a block away from the caller’s residence. If the prowler is still hiding nearby, he will probably wait until he feels it is safe before trying to leave the area. You may be able to spot him as he leaves his place of concealment.

Prowler calls frequently received from the same complainant may be deemed unfounded. However, a routine prowler call may be the beginning of a potentially serious crime. It should always be taken seriously and handled cautiously.