- DTP Success Team
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Exam Outline
Updated: Mar 16
Are you considering taking the DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement exam?
If so, you're likely wondering what to expect on the test.
This blog post will outline the test content, and our free practice exam will give you a sneak peek at some questions you might see on the exam.
So, read on for helpful information, whether you're just starting to study for the test or are almost ready to take it!
Table of Contents
1. History of Law Enforcement
Pre-colonial heritage and colonial heritage: Policing in the U.S. developed in England.
The 1800s and 1900s: Development and growth of branches as a response to growing cities.
Contemporary (the 2000s): Modern policing and its various forms.
Contributions of theorists and practitioners: Changes and developments that occurred as a result of new frameworks.
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Trivia Question #139
2. Overview of the United States Criminal Justice System and Process
Role of police: Maintain order and enforce the law.
Role of prosecutors: Prosecutors represent the state or federal government.
Role of defense: Defense attorneys defend the accused against the government's case.
Role of court: Courts are run by judges who ensure the law is followed and oversee what happens in court.
Role of corrections: Correction officers supervise convicted offenders in jail, prison, or the community on probation or parole.
Crime Measurement: How we view and interpret crime, and the systems developed to record crime.
3. Law Enforcement Systems in the United States
Federal: Federal Bureau of Investigations, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, Drug Enforcement Agency, etc.
Local: The most significant number of agencies employ the most sworn officers.
Special district police agencies: A particular district is a separate local government agency formed to provide local services.
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Trivia Question #140
4. Law Enforcement Organization, Management, and Issues
Operations: The day-to-day duties and how they are implemented.
Infrastructure and hierarchy
Line
Staff
Community relations and policing: Communities rely on departments to protect while the police rely on the community for support.
Police issues: The challenges of operating the police in today’s world.
Image, professionalism, and subculture
Police ethics and discretion
Future policing and technology
Law enforcement/Public focus and priorities
Women and other minorities in policing: The United States police departments must hire people regardless of race or gender.
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Trivia Question #282
5. Criminal and Constitutional Law and Precedents
The Constitution and Bill of Rights: The backbone of the laws that the police must follow.
Supreme Courts case law: Precedents dictate the direction that police take in the future.
Federal and local laws and ordinances: Federal jurisdiction vs. Local jurisdiction.
6. Conclusion
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Exam outlines the United States criminal justice system and process.
This exam covers topics including the role of police, the role of the prosecutor, the history of law enforcement, and contemporary policing.
Our course library has everything you need if you want to learn more about these topics or study for the DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Exam.
Try a free DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement practice test and get a preview of what to expect on test day.
With over 1,000 practice questions available, we have something for everyone.
Sign up today and get started on your journey to success!
7. Student Resources
8. References
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Fact Sheet
DSST Introduction to Law Enforcement Fact Sheet
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