Colorado POST Practice Exam

During an unknown risk felony stop, an officer should approach in what manner?

1. With full tactical cover

2. All officers approaching together

3. Only one officer approaches, staying out of the kill zone

4. Officers should not approach an occupied vehicle during afelony stop

The correct answer is: Officers should not approach an occupied vehicle during afelony stop

During an unknown risk felony stop, the preferred method is for only one officer to approach the vehicle while staying out of what is referred to as the "kill zone." This approach prioritizes officer safety and situational awareness. By designating a single officer to make contact, it reduces the number of officers who might be exposed to potential threats from the suspect or suspects inside the vehicle. This method also allows the approaching officer to focus entirely on the suspect’s actions and behaviors without the distraction of coordinating multiple officers in a potentially hazardous situation. It can also help de-escalate the encounter by not overwhelming the suspect with multiple officers present from the outset. Approaching from a low profile position or with full tactical cover could be effective in different contexts, but during an unknown risk felony stop, staying out of the kill zone while remaining vigilant is paramount. All officers approaching together might also increase the risk to their safety, as having more movement in the area could alert the suspects and lead to unpredictable reactions.