Writing Effective Police Reports

Steve Cerbalic, a panel attorney for AS COPS in Arizona, provides guidance on writing quality police reports, especially those involving use of force. He outlines three do's and don'ts: consider your audience, focus on facts, and use quotations wisely. He emphasizes honesty and accuracy, advising against using jargon, drawing unnecessary conclusions, or inventing information. Cerbalic also suggests reviewing body camera footage before finalizing reports. The video concludes with a call to engage with the content and subscribe for more law enforcement lessons.

What is the primary focus of the video tutorial?

• To teach legal jargon used in police reports

• To provide legal advice on police reports

• To summarize key points for writing quality police reports

• To discuss the history of police reports

Why is it important to consider your audience when writing a police report?

• Because they are all familiar with police jargon

• Because they prefer reports with complex language

• Because they might include supervisors, prosecutors, and judges

• Because they will not read the report

What should you avoid when writing a police report for a diverse audience?

• Using simple language

• Including detailed facts

• Using jargon or acronyms

• Providing clear evidence

What is the key focus when documenting a crime or use of force in a police report?

• Using complex legal terms

• Focusing on facts and evidence

• Writing personal opinions

• Including unnecessary conclusions

What type of statements should be limited in a police report?

• Legal conclusions

• Descriptions of evidence

• Quotations from witnesses

• Factual statements

When is it acceptable to include legal conclusions in a police report?

• When they are based on assumptions

• When they are backed by documented facts and evidence

• When they are not related to the case

• When they are vague and general

What should you do if you have body camera footage of an incident?

• Watch it before finalizing the report

• Delete it after writing the report

• Ignore it and rely on memory

• Share it with the media

Why is honesty crucial in police reports?

• Because the justice system relies on accurate information

• Because it ensures the report is entertaining

• Because it makes the report longer

• Because it confuses the audience

What is a recommended practice before finalizing a police report?

• Guessing details to fill gaps

• Ignoring evidence

• Reviewing body camera footage

• Using complex legal jargon

What is the consequence of inaccurate police reports?

• They have no impact

• They can lead to serious consequences for involved individuals

• They are ignored by the justice system

• They are easily corrected