Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) RADIO Practice Exam

Which term describes a situation where an individual behaves in a way that raises suspicion while in a vehicle?

1. Traffic offense

2. Suspicious vehicle

3. Person acting suspiciously

4. Public disturbance

The correct answer is: Person acting suspiciously

The term describing a situation where an individual behaves in a way that raises suspicion while in a vehicle is "person acting suspiciously." This phrase effectively captures the essence of the behavior displayed by the individual, whereby their actions result in concerns or doubt about their intentions, particularly in the context of being in a vehicle. This term goes beyond a simple observation of a vehicle being parked or moving to consider the behavior of the person inside. It highlights a subjective experience, where onlookers or law enforcement notice actions that deviate from the norm, thereby triggering a need for further investigation or inquiry. In contrast, terms like "traffic offense" refer to specific violations of traffic laws rather than suspicious behavior. "Suspicious vehicle" could describe a vehicle itself that perhaps appears out of place or has no identifiable owner present but lacks the direct link to the behavior of the individual. "Public disturbance" generally relates to broader incidents affecting the peace in a community rather than singular actions of a person within a vehicle.