Which of the following actions would constitute physical obstruction in relation to police officers?

Study for the Massachusetts State Police Sergeant Exam. Access multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to prepare confidently for your exam. Get ready to advance your career!

The action of blocking the path of an officer responding to a call is a clear example of physical obstruction. This behavior directly interferes with the officer's ability to perform their duty, specifically by preventing them from reaching a location where they may be needed to provide assistance or respond to a situation. Physical obstruction is characterized by any action that physically hinders law enforcement from performing their responsibilities, and this scenario exemplifies that criteria effectively.

Other options, while they may involve various levels of interaction with law enforcement, do not fit the definition of physical obstruction. For instance, standing in a public place is within legal rights and does not impede police work unless combined with other obstructive behavior. Expressing discontent verbally may be protected as a form of free speech, as long as it does not escalate to threatening or obstructive behavior. Ignoring police commands can be problematic but does not necessarily constitute physical obstruction unless it involves a physicality that blocks an officer’s path or actions. Thus, blocking an officer's path represents a clear and actionable form of obstruction, validating it as the correct response.

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