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Just the Facts: Investigating Report Writing

NCJ Number
193084
Author(s)
Michael Biggs
Date Published
2001
Length
137 pages
Annotation
This workbook is intended as a training tool offering a combination of the basics of investigation and the basics of investigative report writing.
Abstract
In this workbook, an effective entry-level report writing training guide is offered to explain some of the basics of an investigation and the process in writing about them. The workbook is intended for entry-level students and academy recruits. It establishes fundamental guidelines for investigative reports through a set of rules that can be understood and applied to any situation. In addition, scenarios are presented so the student or recruit can apply the learned behaviors in report writing situations. The workbook is designed on the premise that in order to write police reports students need to know something about investigations. So, the workbook begins by providing a basic foundation for building writing expertise with a discussion of investigations. The remaining chapters identify key learning points along with an explanation and example of each point. These learning points include: (1) note taking; (2) rules of narrative writing; (3) describing persons and property; (4) crime reports; (5) arrest reports; (6) writing issues; (7) writing warrants; and (8) dictating reports.