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

What charge could Frank face for watching his neighbor through her window?

1. Invasion of Privacy

2. Disorderly Conduct

3. Stalking

4. Peeping Tom

The correct answer is: Disorderly Conduct

The most fitting charge for Frank's behavior of watching his neighbor through her window is invasion of privacy. This charge typically arises when a person intentionally intrudes upon the solitude or seclusion of another individual, causing an upset in their reasonable expectation of privacy. Since a window provides an expectation of privacy for the occupant, observing someone through it can be regarded as a violation of that privacy. Disorderly conduct usually pertains to actions that disrupt public peace or order, and while Frank's behavior might be considered inappropriate, it does not necessarily disrupt the peace in a public manner. Stalking involves a pattern of behavior that causes fear or distress to the person being observed, whereas merely watching may not meet the legal threshold for stalking without additional context. The term "Peeping Tom" is often used colloquially to describe the act of secretly observing someone without their consent, but it is primarily a term rather than a specific legal charge in many jurisdictions. Therefore, invasion of privacy more accurately characterizes the nature of Frank's actions in this situation.