OACP Report Writing Fundamentals 2

Question 1

When documenting a witness statement in a police report, which approach best ensures accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Record the witness's exact words using quotation marks where possible

Answer

Using the witness's exact words in quotation marks preserves evidentiary integrity and avoids misrepresentation.

Question 2

Which verb tense is standard for factual narrative sections of an occurrence report?

Accepted Answer

Past tense to reflect completed events

Answer

Past tense is used because the narrative documents events that have already occurred.

Question 3

What does the acronym 'GIPAP' stand for in OACP report writing guidelines?

Accepted Answer

General Information, Person, Address, Property

Answer

GIPAP is a mnemonic for the key elements an officer must capture: General Information, Person, Address, and Property.

Question 4

An officer writes 'the suspect appeared nervous.' Why is this problematic?

Accepted Answer

It contains a subjective interpretation rather than observable facts

Answer

'Appeared nervous' is an opinion; reports should describe observable behaviours such as 'suspect's hands were trembling.'

Question 5

Which section of a police report typically contains the officer's opinion on the credibility of evidence?

Accepted Answer

Generally, officer opinions are not included in any section

Answer

Police reports record facts and observations; opinions on credibility are reserved for court testimony or separate analytical documents.

OACP - Ontario Association of Chief of Police Practice Test