When writing a report on the use of force, what should the report writer include?

When documenting an incident involving the use of force, it is crucial for the report writer to include every relevant detail that can be recalled from the event. This thoroughness ensures a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident, which is vital for any subsequent reviews or legal scrutiny.

Writing the report in the first person is also significant because it provides a personal and immediate account of the events as experienced by the officer. This perspective can help to convey the officer's thought process and immediate reactions at the time of the incident, which may be critical for understanding the use of force.

Furthermore, crafting the report with the mindset that a juror might read it is essential. This approach encourages the report writer to use clear, factual language and maintain objectivity. Jurors will need to grasp the narrative without bias, making it important to present the information in a straightforward and detailed manner.

Including all these elements helps create a comprehensive, accurate, and reliable report that can serve various purposes, including administrative reviews, legal examinations, and training purposes. Thus, integrating everything recalled from the event, writing in the first person, and considering the perspective of a juror are all integral to effective report writing in the context of use of force in law enforcement.