Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Act 120 Practice Exam

What should you do if a person admits to committing a crime during an interaction?

1. Inform them of their rights

2. Arrest or get a warrant

3. Request a confession

4. Contact their lawyer

The correct answer is: Arrest or get a warrant

In a scenario where a person admits to committing a crime during an interaction, the appropriate action is to arrest or obtain a warrant. This step is crucial because an admission of guilt can provide probable cause for arrest. When someone confesses to a crime, law enforcement has the necessary evidence that justifies taking someone into custody. Once the admission is made, the officer must ensure that they follow the legal procedures for arresting an individual, which can also involve obtaining a warrant if the situation requires it, based on jurisdictional policies or the circumstances of the confession. Following these protocols helps uphold justice and the rule of law. Other choices, while relevant in various contexts, do not address the immediate legal requirement of taking action based on a confession. Informing someone of their rights is essential, but it typically occurs after determining the need for or executing an arrest. Requesting a confession might not be necessary when an admission has already been made. Finally, contacting a lawyer is pertinent for the individual's rights but does not appropriately address the immediate need for law enforcement to take action following a crime admission.