Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Does Officer Recinos charge Taylor, despite her not hitting Jackson but listening to the abuse?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if she witnessed the act

4. Only if there was evidence of neglect

The correct answer is: Yes

In situations involving domestic violence or similar incidents, an officer may choose to charge an individual based on the overall context of the situation, even if that individual did not physically commit an act of violence. In this case, the decision to charge Taylor can be based on the understanding that listening to or being complicit in the abuse can indicate an enabling behavior or a failure to intervene in a harmful situation. The legal framework may allow for charges related to failure to protect or assist victims, depending on the specific circumstances and the laws governing such actions. This approach is rooted in the idea that all involved parties have a duty to protect individuals from harm, even if they themselves are not the direct aggressors. Therefore, Officer Recinos charging Taylor aligns with the principle that passivity in the face of abuse can still hold legal weight, reflecting society’s stance against domestic violence and the importance of accountability among witnesses or bystanders.