Communication & Documentation Flashcards

Which tense and person is generally preferred when writing a police report?

Answer: Past tense, first person

Reports describe events that already happened, and officers write their own actions in first person past tense.

Which statement is best for an objective report?

Answer: The suspect had slurred speech, smelled of alcohol, and swayed while standing.

Specific observable facts are objective, while labels and conclusions are not.

When quoting a suspect's statement in a report, you should:

Answer: Use quotation marks and record the exact words, including profanity

Direct quotes must be verbatim so the statement is accurate and admissible.

A deputy realizes after submitting a report that a vehicle's color was wrong. The best action is to:

Answer: Submit a supplemental report correcting the error

Errors are corrected openly through a supplemental report, never by altering or hiding the original.

Which of the following is an example of an opinion that should be avoided in a report unless supported by facts?

Answer: The suspect was hostile

'Hostile' is a conclusion; the specific behaviors should be described instead.

The primary purpose of a narrative section in an incident report is to:

Answer: Provide a chronological, factual account of the incident

The narrative gives a clear, logical, chronological account of what occurred and what was done.

Which element is essential when identifying a suspect in a report?

Answer: A thorough physical description including height, weight, hair, clothing, and distinguishing marks

Detailed descriptors allow others to identify and locate the suspect.