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

When two or more individuals agree to commit an offense and take steps towards it, this is referred to as what?

1. Collusion

2. Cohesion

3. Conspiracy

4. Collaboration

The correct answer is: Conspiracy

The scenario described involves multiple individuals who reach an agreement to engage in criminal activity and take concrete actions toward achieving that goal. This situation is aptly categorized as conspiracy. Conspiracy is a criminal offense that requires both the agreement to commit an illegal act and a measurable step taken toward that act, distinguishing it from mere discussion or planning without action. The law recognizes the potential danger of individuals conspiring together because it increases the likelihood of criminal acts being successfully carried out. By taking steps toward the commission of the crime, the conspirators demonstrate intent and commitment, which is crucial for establishing liability under conspiracy charges. In contrast, terms like collusion and collaboration might imply cooperation but do not inherently relate to the illegal plans intended. Cohesion refers to the quality of forming a united whole and does not apply within a legal or criminal framework. Therefore, the correct categorization of the situation is conspiracy, due to the specific elements of negotiation and action towards a criminal objective.