OACP - Ontario Association of Chief of Police Police Report Writing Fundamentals Questions and Answers

Question 1

An officer is writing a report about a suspect who was uncooperative during an arrest. Which of the following statements is the MOST objective and professional for the report?

Accepted Answer

The suspect refused to follow verbal commands to place his hands behind his back and attempted to pull away when I initiated physical control.

Answer

The suspect had a poor attitude and was being difficult.

Answer

The angry suspect was clearly trying to provoke a reaction from officers on scene.

Answer

It was obvious the suspect was not going to cooperate with the arrest.

Question 2

When structuring the narrative of a standard police incident report, what is the most widely accepted and effective method?

Accepted Answer

In chronological order, documenting events as they occurred from beginning to end.

Answer

By order of importance, starting with the most critical event, such as an arrest.

Answer

In reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent action.

Answer

Grouped by topic, with all witness statements together, followed by all officer actions.

Question 3

Which of the following describes the standard narrative perspective and voice that should be used in a modern police report?

Accepted Answer

First-person, active voice (e.g., 'I placed the subject in my vehicle.')

Answer

Third-person, passive voice (e.g., 'The subject was placed in the vehicle by this officer.')

Answer

Second-person, active voice (e.g., 'You would see the suspect flee the scene.')

Answer

Third-person, active voice (e.g., 'Officer Smith placed the subject in his vehicle.')

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT considered one of the essential qualities of a well-written police report, often referred to as the 'Cs' of report writing?

Accepted Answer

Creative

Answer

Complete

Answer

Concise

Answer

Clear

Question 5

An officer is writing a report that will be read by a Crown attorney, members of the public, and a judge. Which sentence is the most appropriate and clear for this audience?

Accepted Answer

I arrested the man after he shouted, 'You'll never catch me!'

Answer

The perp was 10-7 and we RTB'd shortly after.

Answer

The subject de-bussed from the auto and hoofed it eastbound.

Answer

I apprehended the suspect who subsequently became belligerent.

Question 6

When documenting the fundamental elements of an offence in a report, which of the following questions is MOST critical to answer for the report to be considered complete?

Accepted Answer

Who, what, when, where, why, and how?

Answer

What was the weather like at the time of the incident?

Answer

What is the officer's personal opinion of the victim's credibility?

Answer

How many police units were available in the area at the time of dispatch?