Under the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office policy, when may a JSO vehicle be left unattended with the keys in the ignition?

• A. If the doors are locked and the operator has an extra key, or a police function is being performed.
• B. Only if the engine is off and the vehicle is parked.
• C. If the keys are in a locked glove compartment.
• D. If a supervisor approves in writing.

Answer: (A)

The situation this item tests is security and controlled access to a JSO vehicle when it’s left unattended with the ignition keys still inside. The policy allows this only in two specific and tightly controlled circumstances: first, if the doors are locked and the operator has an extra key, so access is limited to authorized personnel and there’s a clear way to regain control if needed; second, if a police function is being performed, where the vehicle must be left in use for official duties under appropriate procedures. These conditions reduce the risk of theft or unauthorized use while still permitting necessary operations or oversight.

Other scenarios don’t meet the policy’s criteria. Simply having the engine off and the vehicle parked doesn’t address the risk of someone mistakenly taking the vehicle or compromising equipment. Storing the keys in a locked glove compartment still leaves ignition access vulnerable and isn’t the specified exception. Requiring written supervisor approval alone doesn’t authorize leaving the keys in the ignition; the policy specifies the two conditions above as the permissible exceptions.