I've learned to become an astute observer. I need to know my direction of travel, what block I am on at all times, and the sector that I am patrolling. I observe what people are wearing, what they have in their hands, the way the look at the police and the way they walk to determine whether or not they are involved in or are about to become involved in illegal activity. I listen to what people say while observing their actions. It is not unusual when answers to routine questions contradict the actions of the complainants. When I walk into an apartment, or a room full of people that I am not familiar with, I rely greatly on my senses. I assess the key players, look for furtive movements, and evaluate the "feel" of the room. A weakness that I have in the area of observation is
when I feel comfortable in the surroundings that I
...