NPOST Incident Report Writing 3

Question 1

What does the 'who' element of a complete incident report refer to?

Accepted Answer

The people involved: victims, suspects, witnesses, officers

Answer

The location of the crime

Answer

The time of dispatch

Answer

The type of weapon used

Question 2

An officer should document a witness's physical description of a suspect by:

Accepted Answer

Noting specific features such as height, build, clothing, and distinguishing marks

Answer

Recording only the officer's own impression

Answer

Writing 'average looking person'

Answer

Skipping it unless an arrest is made

Question 3

Why is it important to record the exact time entries throughout an incident?

Accepted Answer

To establish an accurate timeline for investigation and court

Answer

To make the report appear longer

Answer

Because times are required to be guessed

Answer

To impress supervisors

Question 4

Which statement should NOT appear in an objective incident report?

Accepted Answer

I could tell the suspect was guilty by his eyes

Answer

The suspect was holding a black handgun in his right hand

Answer

The witness stated she heard two gunshots

Answer

The victim had a laceration above the left eyebrow

Question 5

When multiple officers respond to a scene, each officer's report should:

Accepted Answer

Reflect only what that officer personally observed and did

Answer

Be identical word-for-word

Answer

Be written by the senior officer alone

Answer

Omit any actions taken

Question 6

What is the purpose of including the 'how' element in a report?

Accepted Answer

To describe the manner and method by which the incident occurred

Answer

To list the officer's badge number

Answer

To record the weather forecast

Answer

To name the responding supervisor

Question 7

A clear and concise report narrative is best achieved by using:

Accepted Answer

Short, simple sentences in plain English

Answer

Long, complex sentences with legal jargon

Answer

Slang and informal abbreviations

Answer

Vague descriptions to stay safe