Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

If a woman is screaming loudly in public, what charge might Officer Ngo give her?

1. Public Disturbance

2. Disorderly Conduct

3. Disturbing the Peace

4. Assault

The correct answer is: Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is a charge that is often applied in situations where an individual's behavior is disruptive to public order or peace. In the scenario described, where a woman is screaming loudly in public, her actions could be seen as creating an unreasonable noise that disturbs others. This charge focuses on the behavior itself rather than specific intent to harm or threaten someone, which would be more characteristic of an assault charge. While the other options may seem relevant, they either lack the specific legal definitions associated with the behavior described or apply in a different context. For example, "disturbing the peace" is a broader legal concept that can encompass disorderly conduct, but it might not be as precise in this scenario. "Public disturbance" could also be a term used in some jurisdictions, but it typically falls under the umbrella of disorderly conduct. Assault, on the other hand, involves the threat or use of physical force against another person, which isn't relevant to a situation where someone is merely screaming. Thus, disorderly conduct is the most fitting charge for the behavior described.