What must a peace officer do when a riot is occurring according to CCP 8.04?

In the context of CCP 8.04, the appropriate action for a peace officer during a riot is to cause the assembled persons to disperse. This is fundamental to the officer's duty to maintain public order and safety during such disturbances. A peace officer has the authority to command individuals to disperse and can make arrests if they refuse to comply with lawful orders. This action is critical to preventing further escalation of violence and ensuring the safety of both the individuals involved in the riot and the surrounding community.

Joining the rioters to understand their demands does not align with law enforcement objectives during a riot, which is to restore order rather than engage with individuals who may be engaging in unlawful behavior. Reporting the incident to a higher authority is important but typically comes after measures to control the situation have been taken. Establishing a perimeter and waiting for backup may be part of tactical procedures but does not directly address the immediate duty to disperse the crowd. This focus on taking proactive steps to restore order and safety demonstrates the essential role of peace officers in maintaining public peace in times of civil unrest.