Chicago Police Department SPOS Practice Exam

A personal check made out to an agency cannot be used by officers during a traffic stop because it lacks the immediate liquidity that is essential in such situations. Traffic stops often involve the need for a swift transaction to secure the release of a vehicle or to allow a driver to continue on their way. Cash bonds, surety bonds, and property bonds all have forms that ensure payment or collateral in a manner that can be quickly verified or utilized.

Cash bonds entail immediate payment in cash that can easily be processed, while surety bonds involve a third party guaranteeing the payment of a set amount, thus providing a reliable option for fulfilling any financial responsibility resulting from the stop. Property bonds allow for the use of property as collateral, which can also be assessed for value quickly.

In contrast, a personal check would require verification and could involve a waiting period for the funds to clear, potentially causing delays and complications during the enforcement of traffic laws.