Which principle indicates that merit should be based on personnel procedures?

• A. Crime fighting role should be prominent
• B. Merit should be on the basis of personnel procedures
• C. The police should stay out of politics
• D. The police should use technological developments

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that merit in policing should be determined through standardized personnel procedures. This means hiring, promotion, and other staffing decisions are based on objective evaluations—qualifications, tests, performance, and documented criteria—rather than favoritism or external influence. When personnel decisions follow established procedures, it ensures fairness, consistency, and competence, which helps maintain public trust and an effective police force. The other considerations describe different policing priorities or political factors, not how merit is determined in staffing decisions, so they don’t address the basis for evaluating and advancing personnel.