Law enforcement officers, and sometimes other public safety personnel, are tasked with the critical responsibility of creating the initial official document for an arrest, incident or crime scene. This report often serves as the primary and most credible source of information about the event, significantly influencing subsequent decisions. Accurately and fairly presenting the facts in this document, and later testifying under oath, is essential for the proper functioning of the criminal justice system. This course, led by experienced law enforcement and prosecutorial instructors, aims to enhance students’ understanding of these concepts.
This class is a combination of lecture, video, writing and testifying exercises. Officers are invited to bring a redacted copy of a recent police report they would like to practice with.
The course objectives include:
Report Writing
- Recall the police officer’s role in evidence documentation including report writing.
- Explain why good police reports are essential to the proper administration of justice.
- List the qualities of a good police report.
- Review basic grammar rules and common mistakes in police report writing.
- Explain how to create a format usable to write a police report for any crime.
- Perform report writing exercises provided.
- Explain how report writing is preparation for testimony under oath.
Testifying Under Oath
- Explain what kinds of processes use law enforcement sworn testimony.
- Recall the organization of the courtroom and the roles of each member within.
- Explain the trial process as it relates to the police officer’s role in getting evidence admitted.
- Explain the Direct Examination and predict what kinds of questions might be asked.
- Explain the Cross Examination and predict what kinds of questions might be asked.
- Perform exercises properly answering questions for a Direct or Cross Examination based upon a self-authored report.
*Updated 11/2024.
