WEEK 1
Grammar & Composition – Report Writing (graded)
A well-written report is clear and concise. Explain and discuss how proper grammar and composition facilitates good report writing.
Poor Grammar & Sentence Structure (graded)
Evaluate the effects of poor grammar, syntax and sentence structure within the following scenarios: 1) the supervisor who reviews the report, 2) the detective conducting a follow-up investigation based on the report, 3) the states attorney reviewing the report for purposes of charging a suspect or presenting the case at trial, 4) a defense attorney reviewing the report in the defense of his client, and 5) a judge or jury listening to the officers testimony at trial.
WEEK 2
Qualities of a Good Report (graded)
What are the qualities of a good police report? Examine the necessity for good report writing through the purpose and significance of reports within the whole criminal justice system and outside of the system. Be specific.
Probable Cause (graded)
What is probable cause? Discuss ways in which a police officer can establish probable cause. How can probable cause be best articulated in reports? What are the ramifications of failing to justify probable cause in reports?
WEEK 3
The Police Investigator (graded)
What is the role of the first responding officer to any crime scene? How important is it that this officer is an effective note taker? What other responsibilities besides gathering information does the first responding officer have?
Fatal Traffic Accident Report (graded)
What role do the police play in the investigation of fatal motor vehicle accidents? When it is determined that an accident has been caused by a driver who has violated the law, what courses of action do the police take? What types of reports are completed here?
WEEK 4
Interviewing (graded)
What are different types of interviews that police officers conduct? Is an interview with a victim or eyewitness to a crime the same as an interview with a suspect of a crime? Is a field interview of that suspect the same as an interview at police headquarters?
Report Writing Supervision (graded)
Why is there a need for supervisors to review police reports? Should departmental policy dictate who is responsible for report writing review and approval? If errors or omissions are found, can changes be made to the original report that was submitted by the initial reporting officer?
week 6
Data Communication Technologies (graded)
Conduct an Internet search of data communications technologies available to law enforcement agencies. Present and discuss the findings resulting from that search. Is there one type of technology that stands out as the most important or most effective?
Data Communication Systems (graded)
Assume you are the chief of police of a medium-sized police department who is contemplating a new or upgraded data communication system for your department. Discuss what system you think is best suited for your department and explain your reasons.
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week 7
Records Management Systems RMS (graded)
What is the purpose of a RMS? What capabilities should a RMS provide to the individual user and the law enforcement agency as a whole? Why?
Interfacing Audience (graded)
Why is it necessary that an RMS not stand alone but, rather interface with a variety of local, regional, state and federal systems? Given this availability of information to a vast audience, comment on the importance of accurate and complete report writing.