MTA Report Writing 2

Question 1

A police report describes a suspect as 'approximately 6 feet tall, heavyset, wearing a red hoodie.' What type of information is this?

Accepted Answer

Physical description

Answer

Physical descriptions of suspects document observable characteristics and are a standard component of police reports.

Question 2

When documenting a crime scene in a report, an officer should describe the location using:

Accepted Answer

Compass directions and fixed reference points

Answer

Compass directions and fixed reference points provide precise, reproducible location descriptions that others can verify independently.

Question 3

Which of the following should an officer AVOID when writing a police report?

Accepted Answer

Using slang or informal language

Answer

Slang and informal language undermine a report's professionalism and can create ambiguity in legal proceedings.

Question 4

Officer Chen writes: 'The suspect seemed nervous and guilty.' What is wrong with this statement?

Accepted Answer

It contains subjective opinion rather than observable facts

Answer

Stating someone 'seemed guilty' is an opinion; reports should document observable behaviors like 'the suspect avoided eye contact and fidgeted.'

Question 5

A supplemental report is typically filed when:

Accepted Answer

New information becomes available after the initial report

Answer

Supplemental reports document new evidence, witness statements, or developments discovered after the initial report was completed.

MTA - Police Exam Practice Test