MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

When you find a small gun in the back seat of your patrol car after arresting a subject for OWI, what should you do?

1. Apply it to the suspect because your vehicle was clean prior to the arrest

2. No probable cause if it is the suspect, therefore unable to apply to suspect

3. Apply it to the suspect because he looks like someone who would have a gun

4. Request assistance from other officers

The correct answer is: Apply it to the suspect because your vehicle was clean prior to the arrest

The appropriate action in this scenario involves ensuring safety and following protocol when encountering a firearm in the patrol vehicle. The correct approach is to request assistance from other officers. This is crucial for various reasons. First, handling a weapon can be dangerous, especially if the situation is uncertain. Requesting assistance ensures that there are enough trained personnel to manage the situation safely. Other officers can help secure the firearm, ensuring it is handled according to departmental policy, which typically includes checking for ownership, ensuring it is properly logged for evidence, and determining if it is related to the incident that brought you into contact with the suspect. This response reflects a fundamental principle in law enforcement: prioritizing safety and following protocol to handle evidence and potential threats effectively. The other choices do not prioritize safety or adhere to proper procedural practices, which can lead to complications or risks both for the officers involved and the suspect.