What is a common consequence of failure to follow police procedure?

A common consequence of failure to follow police procedure is legal repercussions. This indicates that if an officer does not adhere to established protocols, they may face legal actions, which can include civil lawsuits, criminal charges, or disciplinary measures within their department. Police procedures are designed not only to protect the officers themselves but also to safeguard the rights of the public and ensure that law enforcement actions are conducted lawfully. When these procedures are violated, the validity of arrests, evidence collection, and other law enforcement actions can be questioned, resulting in negative legal outcomes for both the individual officer and the department.

Promotion within the department and job security are generally the opposite of what may occur with procedural failures, as such actions can jeopardize an officer's standing and future career advancements. Likewise, increased community trust would likely diminish in the face of procedural violations, as these failures can lead to public distrust in law enforcement and its practices. Therefore, legal repercussions are the most appropriate and accurate consequence of not following police procedure.