Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

What describes a standing search?

1. A thorough examination of a vehicle after an arrest

2. A quick preliminary search of a person's belongings

3. A physical search where the person’s hands are on the wall and legs apart

4. An approach that allows suspects to self-report items

The correct answer is: A physical search where the person’s hands are on the wall and legs apart

The correct choice describes a standing search as a physical search of an individual in which their hands are placed on a wall and their legs are spread apart. This method is typically employed to ensure that the individual does not have any weapons or contraband concealed on their person that could pose a threat to the officer or others during the encounter. The position allows for a complete and safe search, as it maximizes the visibility and accessibility of areas where items could be hidden. This technique is important for maintaining safety during police interactions, especially when the individual may be apprehensive or uncooperative. The posture makes it easier for officers to conduct the search without the risk of the person trying to evade them or hide items. The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of a standing search. A thorough examination of a vehicle is more detailed than a standing search, focusing on external premises rather than a person. A quick preliminary search of belongings does not involve the specific physical positioning described in the standing search. Allowing suspects to self-report items would not be classified as a search but rather as an interaction where honesty and cooperation are relied upon, which is fundamentally different from the controlled context of a standing search.