Law Enforcement Organization and Administration (LEA 1) Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term "proactive policing" primarily refers to preventing crimes before they occur, which is why this approach is considered the correct answer. Proactive policing involves strategies and initiatives aimed at addressing the underlying causes of crime, thereby reducing the likelihood of criminal activities. This can include community outreach programs, increased visibility of law enforcement in neighborhoods, and efforts to engage with community members to foster trust and cooperation.

By focusing on prevention, proactive policing seeks to deter potential offenders through various means, such as community education programs, problem-oriented policing, and collaboration with social services. This approach aims to create a safer environment, reduce crime rates, and enhance community relations by addressing issues before they escalate into criminal acts.

The other options highlight reactive or passive strategies that do not embody the proactive mindset. For example, responding to calls as they come in illustrates a reactive approach, where law enforcement waits for incidents to occur before taking action. Patrolling neighborhoods without a specific aim might contribute to crime deterrence to an extent, but it lacks the focused prevention efforts that characterize proactive policing. Conducting investigations after a crime occurs also represents a responsive action rather than a preventive strategy.