Effective Police Writing

This four-hour class is designed to enhance the skills of the law enforcement officer in writing accurate and complete police reports. Emphasis is placed on the proper techniques for writing effective police reports and avoiding common pitfalls that can undermine the officer's ability to refer to the report during court testimony. The participant will receive training in organizing the report content, writing the report, and evaluating the report for accuracy and completeness. 

Competencies: 

• Participants will produce clearly written, intelligent and accurate representations of events and situations and provide accurate testimony and descriptions of those events when requested to do so. Participants will also act in ways that support the needs of the community and profession, while carrying out the responsibilities of an officer and a member of their respective community. 

Course Objectives: 

• Compose an effective police report
• Describe ten common mistakes that undermine the effectiveness of a police report 
• Explain five steps for organizing and writing an effective police report. 
• Identify ten characteristics of a well written police report. 
• Demonstrate the ability to write an effective police report 

Methodologies: 

• Lecture
• Scenarios
• Class Discussion 

Who Should Attend: 

• Law Enforcement and Correction Officers 
• Police Service/Community Service Aids 
• Field Training Officers 
• Supervisors 

Course Requirements: 

• Participate in class polling exercises 
• 100% Attendance