Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) Practice Exam

What are the primary duties of a peace officer when responding to a call for service?

1. Investigating suspects, taking statements, and collecting evidence

2. Responding to the incident, securing the scene, and conducting a preliminary investigation

3. Detaining potential witnesses and furthering investigation

4. Providing first aid, taking statements, and documenting the scene

The correct answer is: Responding to the incident, securing the scene, and conducting a preliminary investigation

The primary duties of a peace officer when responding to a call for service include responding to the incident, securing the scene, and conducting a preliminary investigation. This response is critical as it allows the officer to assess the situation quickly and ensure the safety of everyone involved, including victims, witnesses, and themselves. By securing the scene, they prevent potential evidence tampering and ensure that the area remains safe and controlled, which is essential for any subsequent investigative work. Conducting a preliminary investigation involves gathering initial information about what occurred, which helps in determining the appropriate next steps and actions that need to be taken. While other choices include relevant responsibilities, they tend to detail specific aspects of a larger process rather than encapsulating the initial and fundamental responsibilities during the initial response to an incident. Investigating suspects or providing first aid are essential duties but ordinarily follow the immediate tasks of responding to and securing a scene. These actions collectively ensure that peace officers can properly manage the situation and provide a foundation for further investigative work.