Which of the following scenarios is considered outside the course and scope of employment for probation officers using their private vehicle?

When evaluating the scenario that falls outside the course and scope of employment for probation officers using their private vehicles, the situation of driving to the grocery store during a lunch break is clearly distinct from their official duties. Probation officers are tasked with the responsibilities of monitoring and supporting probationers, which includes attending court, participating in authorized training, and occasionally transporting probationers for meetings—these activities are directly related to their work.

In contrast, going to the grocery store during a lunch break is a personal errand and does not relate to the officer's professional obligations. This personal activity occurs outside the framework of their work responsibilities, and any incidents that occur during such a personal trip would not be covered under their professional employment parameters. Therefore, this scenario exemplifies a situation where the probation officer is acting outside the course and scope of their employment.