Criminal Tech

Santana_CRJU_4169_MM_Chapter3.ppt

CRJU 4169: The Parts of the Narrative Case Report

Introduction

The completion of the narrative report is the final step in documenting what transpired with regard to the incident.
This document is a reflection of your training, skills, and abilities as a law enforcement officer.

Major Parts of the Case Report

Face Sheet

Introduction

Reporting Individual/Victim Statements

Witness(es) Statement

Facts of the Case

Suspect Statements

Conclusion

Synopsis

A brief summary of the incident, which informs the reader of the essential facts and the disposition of the case
The synopsis should support the title of the report.
The overall goal of the synopsis is to support the elements of the crime and to inform the reader about what is and what is not included in the report.

The Narrative Report

This is the part of the case report where you tell the story.
It is the main body of the written report.
It gives an overview of the criminal incident.
Use paragraphs to help paint the picture of how the incident unfolded.
Always start a new paragraph when you change locations, individuals, or significant events.
Each paragraph should have one central idea or theme.
Your goal is to guide the reader through the incident.
The narrative report should tell the story in simple and understandable language.

Supplemental Reports

Refers to any one of numerous types of subsequent narratives or attachments that will be added to the original case report
It may include witness statements, waivers, laboratory findings, or other forms connected with the incident.

Figure 3-1 Harassment Face Sheet/Cover Sheet Report

Figure 3-2 Completed Harassment Report

Follow Up Reports

Usually authored by someone other than the writer of the initial case report
These typically involve issues that arise at a later date after the case report has been filed.

The Right Way to Write

The writing style of the narrative case report is where it all comes together.
Present clear, concise, and comprehensive information that is grammatically correct and understandable to readers with a wide variety of educational levels.

Tips for the Parts of the Narrative Case Report

Use proper English.
Use careful punctuation and grammar.
Keep it simple.
Keep things in chronological order.
Do not forget to include who, what, when, where, how, and why.
When interviewing victims, witnesses, or suspects, ask the question “How do you know?”
Follow your agency’s requirements when dealing with issues such as format and style.
Use clear and concise wording.
Avoid abstract words.
Use the active voice.