SCCJA Cumulative Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cumulative Practice Questions and Study Guide

The assertion that police are required to tolerate fighting words is actually incorrect. Fighting words are defined as speech intended to incite violence or cause immediate harm or breach of peace. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that such speech is not protected under the First Amendment due to its potential to provoke a violent reaction.

In this context, police officers have the authority to intervene when fighting words are present, especially if they are likely to lead to violence. Therefore, the correct answer is that police are not required to tolerate fighting words, as they can act to prevent imminent threats to public order or safety. The concept of fighting words justifies law enforcement's intervention rather than requiring tolerance.