Which term describes a coercive interrogation method now prohibited?

• A. Stop and frisk
• B. Writ of habeas corpus
• C. Third degree
• D. Uniform Crime Reports

Answer: (C)

Coercive interrogation methods describe aggressive tactics used to force confessions, including threats or physical pressure, which are now prohibited. The term that best captures this practice is the old label third degree, historically used to refer to police methods involving coercion and intimidation to obtain confessions. The other terms don’t fit this concept: stop and frisk is a police stop based on reasonable suspicion to check for weapons or contraband, not an interrogation technique; a writ of habeas corpus is a legal mechanism to challenge unlawful detention; Uniform Crime Reports are a data collection program for crime statistics.