Here is a summary of the 10 Effective Police Report Writing Tips I have discussed in this blog. I occasionally will add to this compilation. In future blog entries I will provide similar suggestions regarding testifying in court.
Effective Police Report Writing Tips
#1: An officer is known by his or her reports.
#2: Juries want corroboration of the officer’s observations.
#3: Put something unique about the suspect/arrestee in your report.
#4: The Prosecutor reviews your report over a cup of coffee.
#5: It's impossible to accurately predict which case will go to trial.
#6: Spelling Counts!
#7: Statements are not necessarily admissions. Alibis aren't necessarily true.
#8: Avoid conclusionary language. Rather, describe thoroughly.
#9: Each arrest, each suspect, and each report is unique.
#10: Anticipate defense challenges and preempt them in your report.
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