GROUP 3
Police Report Writing
1. Contents of the Basic or Informal Police Report
Basic or informal police reports typically cover essential details about an incident without
extensive formal language or structure. The contents generally include:
Date, Time, and Location
Specific details on when and where the incident occurred, which are crucial for accurate
records and legal proceedings.
Officer's Name and Badge Number
The reporting officer’s identification provides accountability and a point of reference if
further clarification is needed.
Description of the Incident
A clear and concise narrative summarizing what happened, how it was observed, or how
it was reported to law enforcement.
People Involved
Names, descriptions, contact information, and roles of individuals involved (e.g., victim,
witness, or suspect).
Observations and Evidence
Noteworthy observations by the officer, including evidence collected at the scene (e.g.,
photographs, physical evidence) and immediate statements or witness testimonies.
Actions Taken
Any steps the officer took, such as detaining a suspect, collecting evidence, or calling for
medical assistance, are documented to show how the situation was managed.
Conclusion or Follow-Up
Any conclusions drawn or further actions planned, such as a request for additional
investigation or assignment of the case to a detective, should be noted.
2. Classification of Law Enforcement Reports
Law enforcement reports can generally be classified by purpose, function, and content:
Administrative Reports
These reports focus on the internal functions of a police department, such as personnel,
resource management, equipment, and policy adherence. They do not deal with criminal
incidents directly but help manage internal affairs.
Operational or Field Reports
These are the most common types of reports, detailing incidents such as crimes,
accidents, arrests, and other occurrences observed by law enforcement officers in the
field.
Investigative Reports
These reports focus on investigations that may be open-ended and require continuous
follow-up. They often involve detailed case information, witness interviews, and forensic
analysis.
Intelligence Reports
These reports gather information on potential criminal activities, suspects, or threats.
Intelligence reports may not be specific to a single incident but rather focus on ongoing
or organized criminal activities.
3. Concept of Police Report
What is a Police Report?
A police report is an official document created by law enforcement officers to provide a
detailed, factual account of an incident, offense, arrest, or any law enforcement action.
Police reports are critical in documenting an officer’s observations and actions and serve
as formal records for legal proceedings, investigations, and crime analysis.
Purpose and Importance of Police Reports
Police reports play a vital role in the justice system by creating a transparent, structured
account of law enforcement activities. They serve multiple purposes:
o Legal Documentation: Police reports can be presented in court as evidence.
o Investigative Tool: Reports serve as a record that investigators use to examine
facts, verify statements, and follow leads.
o Accountability: They ensure transparency by creating a public record of law
enforcement activities.
Types of Information Included
Police reports capture factual information, such as the date, time, location, and
description of the incident, along with details about involved parties, evidence, and
observations made by the reporting officer.
4. Four Types of Operational Reports
Incident Report
An incident report is created to document any event or occurrence that law enforcement
encounters. It can include everything from suspicious activities and minor infractions to
major crimes, with details on the event, people involved, and actions taken by officers.
Crime Report
A crime report specifically addresses criminal activities. It includes detailed information
about the nature of the crime, suspects, witnesses, evidence collected, and any immediate
actions taken to apprehend offenders or prevent further incidents.
Arrest Report
This report documents details surrounding an arrest, including the suspect’s information,
charges, evidence leading to the arrest, and the circumstances that justified the action.
Arrest reports are crucial for providing context to judicial authorities and supporting
criminal prosecution.
Supplemental or Follow-Up Report
When further investigation is required after an initial report, a supplemental report is
prepared. This report contains updates on ongoing cases, including new evidence, witness
statements, forensic results, or any additional findings that could affect the investigation's
direction.
5. Miranda Warning
The Miranda Warning is a standard recitation law enforcement officers provide to inform
individuals of their rights upon arrest. Here is the standard text of the Miranda Warning:
“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you
in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one
will be provided for you.”
This warning ensures that individuals understand their constitutional rights, particularly the Fifth
Amendment right against self-incrimination and the Sixth Amendment right to legal
representation. Failure to administer the Miranda Warning can render statements made by the
suspect inadmissible in court.
