Best Practices & Methodologies Flashcards

Which report-writing practice best supports admissible, credible testimony?

Answer: Recording facts objectively in chronological order using specific observations

Objective, specific, chronological facts make reports reliable and defensible in court.

What is the primary goal of de-escalation during a tense encounter?

Answer: Gaining voluntary compliance while reducing the need for force

De-escalation uses communication, time, distance, and cover to resolve incidents safely.

When collecting physical evidence at a scene, what should be done first?

Answer: Photograph and document it in place before collection

Evidence is documented in its original position before being collected to preserve context.

A chain of custody log is used to:

Answer: Document every person who handled evidence and when

It proves the evidence's integrity from collection through court presentation.

Which approach reflects problem-oriented policing (the SARA model)?

Answer: Scanning, Analysis, Response, Assessment

SARA is a problem-solving framework that targets underlying causes of recurring problems.

Effective active listening by a deputy includes:

Answer: Paraphrasing what the person said to confirm understanding

Paraphrasing shows attention and helps verify information and build rapport.

Why is it a best practice to use a supervisor review of use-of-force reports?

Answer: It promotes accountability, policy compliance, and training insights

Supervisory review identifies policy issues and training needs and ensures accountability.