CJ 212 Police Report Writing

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Provides the necessary information to become a knowledgeable and successful writer of narrative police reports, documenting both original crimes and follow-up investigations. Utilizes a specialized format to meet different types of investigative activities, e.g., crime scene processing, interviews with suspects and witnesses, probable cause statements, and the execution of search warrants. Re-emphasizes basic writing skills and spelling accuracy related to criminal justice terminology.

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of CJ 125 with a “C” or higher; or current professional in the field; or consent of instructor.
Corequisite: CJ 103 with criminal history clearance; or current professional in the field; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Identify and explain what makes well-written narrative police reports and why they are important.
Identify and describe the narrative format.
Write clear and objective reports.
Use basic entry-level criminal justice vocabulary and terminology.
Identify and explain how diagrams, interviews, and crime scene documentation relate to successful prosecution and constitutional requirements.
Identify and explain preparation for court testimony and how to use the police report when on the witness stand.