MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What is a common indicator of reasonable suspicion when approaching a suspect?

1. The suspect is making eye contact

2. The suspect flees the area without provocation

3. The suspect is walking quickly

4. The suspect is talking to someone

The correct answer is: The suspect flees the area without provocation

A common indicator of reasonable suspicion is when a suspect flees the area without provocation. This behavior can suggest that the individual may be attempting to avoid law enforcement or is involved in illicit activities. The act of fleeing raises red flags as it often indicates that the person may be aware of their wrongdoing or has a reason to escape from a law enforcement presence. Observing someone running away when there is no clear reason—such as an emergency or a nearby threat—can lead officers to reasonably suspect that the person may be a suspect in a crime or has taken part in suspicious behavior, prompting them to investigate further. Other behaviors, such as simply making eye contact, walking quickly, or engaging in conversation with others, do not inherently suggest wrongdoing. Making eye contact can be a sign of engagement or confidence, walking quickly may be typical for someone in a hurry, and talking to someone could be wholly innocuous. Therefore, while those actions might warrant further observation depending on the context, they do not provide the same level of immediate concern as fleeing does.