In law enforcement, what is a jurisdiction?

Question

No wikipedia entries please.

Answer 1

In simple terms, it is the place where the officer works, and what land is included in that place.

For example, if your a cop, and your patch says "Nashville", then, that is the only town you have jurisdiction.

If your patch says "Massachusetts State Police", then your jurisdiction is the entire state of Massachusetts.

If your patch says, "Dade County Sheriffs Department", then you have jurisdiction for the whole Dade County.

Answer 2

the area in which  a particular law enforcement agency has the authority to enforce the laws.    for example:   a Springfield Police Officer only has the authority to enforce laws within the city limits of the City of Springfield.  The officer would not have the authority to travel outside his jurisdiction (city limits of the City of Springfield) to enforce the laws.  

The State police have the authority to enforce the laws of the state all across the State.   They cannot, however, travel outside of the State to enforce ...like write tickets or make an arrest.  

Answer 3

It is the power over a certain area, virtual or physical, determined by location or activity. Jurisdiction determines what entity controls a particular area or activity.