Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

What should a private investigator do if the police arrive during surveillance?

1. Reveal their identity immediately

2. Panic and leave the scene

3. Be polite and keep the investigation private

4. Request police assistance

The correct answer is: Be polite and keep the investigation private

Maintaining professionalism is crucial for a private investigator during surveillance operations, especially when approached by law enforcement. Being polite and keeping the investigation private is essential because it helps ensure that the investigator’s actions remain confidential and that any sensitive information related to the ongoing investigation is not disclosed unnecessarily. Additionally, this approach fosters a cooperative relationship with law enforcement, which can be beneficial for future interactions. It is important for private investigators to maintain their composure and not disclose their identity unless necessary, as revealing too much can jeopardize the investigation. The other options suggest actions that could either compromise the investigation or undermine the professional standing of the investigator. Revealing one's identity immediately might provide information that could be misused or unnecessarily escalate the situation. Panicking and leaving the scene could create suspicion and potentially lead to further complications. While there may be valid scenarios where requesting police assistance is warranted, in many cases, it is better to maintain the boundaries of the investigation and address any police inquiries with calmness and respect.