North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What are the two types of patrol commonly recognized in law enforcement?

1. Distant and Close

2. Conspicuous and Inconspicuous

3. Visible and Invisible

4. Active and Passive

The correct answer is: Conspicuous and Inconspicuous

The two types of patrol commonly recognized in law enforcement are conspicuous and inconspicuous. Conspicuous patrol refers to a visible presence of law enforcement, which can serve multiple purposes such as deterring crime, reassuring the public, and responding to incidents. This type of patrol often involves officers being in plain view, allowing them to be easily seen by the community they serve. This visibility can foster a sense of security and trust among the public. In contrast, inconspicuous patrol is designed to observe and intervene discreetly. Officers may use unmarked vehicles or plain clothes to blend into their environment. This approach allows law enforcement to detect criminal activities without drawing attention to themselves, which can lead to more effective enforcement of the law. This distinction is critical for law enforcement agencies as they seek to balance visibility to deter crime while also employing strategies that allow for effective surveillance and crime intervention.