This document discusses the importance of police report writing and the qualities of an effective report. A well-written report documents actions, provides statistical data, aids investigations, and demonstrates professionalism. An efficient report only includes necessary facts and logically sequences information. A thorough report has all details needed for follow-up like dates, locations, evidence. A professional report uses standard English and follows agency guidelines. An objective report states only observed facts without opinions or judgments.

1. CRIMINAL JUSTICE REPORT
WRITING
THE HOW AND WHY
Part I
What is a Professional
Police Report?

2. Why is report writing so
important?
A well-written report…
 documents your words and actions
 provides data for statistical reports
 facilitates investigations
 showcases your professionalism

3. What are the qualities of a good
report?
It is…
 efficient (officers are busy, and time is
limited)
 thorough (information in the report may
be needed for follow-up later on)
 professional (you may be judged on
what you’ve written)
 objective (your report documents your
fairness and honesty)

4. What makes a report efficient?
It…
 includes only necessary words and facts
 organizes the facts in a clear and logical
sequence
 can easily be understood by anyone
doing a follow-up investigation

5. What makes a report thorough?
It includes all information needed for
further investigation and action, such
as…
 Date, time, and location
 Serial numbers, makes, and models
 Victims, witnesses, and suspects
 Miranda rights
 Evidence
 Injuries

6. What makes a report
professional?
It…
 uses Standard English (except when
quoting someone’s exact words)
 meets guidelines for your agency or
institution
 follows contemporary criminal justice
practices

7. What makes a report objective?
It…
 states only what you saw, heard, or did
 omits opinions and hunches
 sticks to facts
 avoids judgments, explanations, and
theories

8. To Learn More:
Criminal Justice Report Writing is available in
softcover ($17.95) from www.Amazon.com and in a
variety of ebook and Apple formats (Kindle, Nook,
SONY etc.) for $11.99 from www.Smashwords.com.
Read a free sample online!

9. Find FREE report writing
resources online at
www.YourPoliceWrite.com