Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Act 120 Practice Exam

What is a proper procedure when arresting someone in an open field?

1. Use physical force immediately

2. Laying down palms up

3. Verbal warnings first

4. Call for backup before approaching

The correct answer is: Laying down palms up

The correct answer highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and compliance of an arrested individual. Laying someone down with their palms facing up is a technique that helps to establish control over the subject. This position allows police officers to safely search the individual and reduces the risk of the person reaching for a weapon. In open field situations, visibility is often limited and the risk of escape or confrontation can be higher. By placing the individual in this position, officers create a physical barrier that discourages movement and enables the officers to maintain a secure environment until further action can be taken. This method of control is especially critical when alone in an open area without immediate backup. Other approaches, such as using physical force immediately, can escalate a situation unnecessarily and may not be legally justified. Verbal warnings play an important role in de-escalation but may not be sufficient in all scenarios, especially if the individual poses a flight risk or is non-compliant. Calling for backup before approaching could be prudent in some instances but is not practical in every situation; in an open field, prompt action may be required to prevent the escape of the suspect. Understanding the proper positioning of an arrested subject can be pivotal in ensuring both officer and public safety during an arrest.