Free Use Of Force Report Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Use Of Force Report

Filling out a Use of Force Report form is an essential process that ensures all details related to an incident requiring force are accurately documented. This documentation is critical for review and analysis, helping to maintain transparency and accountability within departments. For those involved in such situations, it’s important to follow a clear and methodical approach when completing this form to ensure that all information is properly recorded. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Start with the INCIDENT DESCRIPTION section. Enter the type of call, case number, date, time, and day of the week. Provide the address where the incident occurred and describe the weather and lighting conditions at that time.
2. Under Justification for using force, check the box that best explains the reason for the use of force. If you select "Other," make sure to provide a detailed explanation in the space provided.
3. Move to the SUSPECT INFORMATION section. Fill in the suspect’s last name, first name, middle initial, address, sex (M for male, F for female), age, and race. Clearly indicate the suspect's height and weight.
4. Describe the precise activity of the suspect prior to the use of force, including if they were assaulting, fleeing, or showing passive resistance, among other behaviors.
5. Indicate whether the suspect was armed, selecting the type of weapon if applicable. If "Other" is selected, specify the type of weapon or technique used.
6. Check the appropriate box to indicate if the suspect was under the influence of alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, unknown substances, or not applicable. Specify the type of clothing the suspect was wearing.
7. Document if the suspect was injured, and if so, detail the injuries and who treated them.
8. Next, fill in the OFFICER INFORMATION section with the officer’s name, middle initial, ID number, race, sex, duty assignment, age, height, and weight. Specify the type of uniform and the duty status at the time of the incident.
9. Describe the officer’s activity at the time of the incident and list the weapon(s) used. For TASERS, note the number of cycles. Clearly describe the impact locations and weapon usage.
10. State the effectiveness of the applied weapon(s) and document if any injuries occurred as a result of the use of force.
11. The reporting officer should sign and date the form, providing their ID. Supervisor’s name and ID must also be entered along with any comments.
12. Ensure that all required documents, such as a photocopy of the officer’s report and TASER dataport download if applicable, are attached.
13. Fill in the platoon/unit commander’s name & ID along with any comments.
14. Lastly, complete the CHAIN OF COMMAND REVIEW section. Each reviewing official should indicate whether the use of force was in policy, sign, and date their section.
15. Forward the completed form to the Staff Inspections Unit after review by the Bureau Commander.

By meticulously following these steps, one can accurately complete the Use of Force Report form. This process not only aids in record-keeping but also supports a comprehensive review to ensure the appropriate use of force in each incident.

What is the purpose of the Use of Force Report form?

The Use of Force Report form serves several critical purposes within a police department. Primarily, it is designed to document any incident in which an officer uses force during the course of their duties. This documentation includes detailed information about the incident itself, the justification for using force, and any injuries sustained by suspects or officers. The form ensures accountability, provides data for analyzing patterns of force usage, and is used as evidence in cases where the legality or appropriateness of force is questioned. It also helps in evaluating the effectiveness of training and can lead to policy adjustments if necessary.

What information is required in the "Incident Description" section?

In the "Incident Description" section, detailed information about the context in which force was used is required. This includes the type of call leading to the incident, the case number, date, time, and day of the week, along with the specific address where the incident occurred. Environmental conditions, such as weather and lighting, are also documented to give a complete picture of the situation. Crucially, the justification for using force is noted, including whether it was to protect oneself or others, to restrain or subdue a resistant individual, or to bring an unlawful situation under control, with an option to provide further explanation if necessary.

How is "Suspect Information" documented?

The "Suspect Information" section captures specific data on the individual(s) involved in the incident. This includes personal information such as last name, first name, middle initial, address, sex, age, race, height, and weight. It also details the suspect's behavior immediately before the use of force (e.g., assaulting, fleeing), any weapons involved, whether the suspect was under the influence of substances, and their attire. If the suspect was injured, details such as the nature of the injuries and how they were treated are included.

What details are required in the "Officer Information" section?

This section focuses on the officer(s) who used force. It documents their personal and professional information, including last name, first name, middle initial, ID number, race, sex, duty assignment, age, height, weight, and type of uniform worn during the incident. Details about the officer’s duty status at the time (on duty, off duty, etc.), their activity at the moment of the incident (handcuffing, interviewing), the weapons or techniques employed, their effectiveness, and any resulting injuries to the officer must be recorded. Finally, the officer's signature with date, along with the reviewing supervisor’s name and ID, are required to validate the report.

What is the role of the "Chain of Command Review" in this form?

The "Chain of Command Review" section is crucial for the internal review and oversight process within the police department. Each level of the officer's supervisory chain, including the Supervisor, Platoon/Unit Commander, District/Division Commander, and Bureau Commander, must review the report and document their assessment of whether the use of force was in policy. They sign off on the report, indicating their agreement or disagreement with the findings and actions taken. This ensures that multiple levels of oversight are applied, promoting accountability and adherence to departmental policies on the use of force. The completed review is then forwarded to the Staff Inspections Unit for final validation.

Filling out a Use of Force Report requires a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, yet it is common to see mistakes that can impact the integrity of the report and potentially lead to issues down the line. One prevalent error is the omission of specific details regarding the incident. For instance, not fully detailing the suspect's precise activity prior to the use of force can leave the report vague and open to interpretation. This lack of detail does not provide a clear context for the use of force, making it difficult to assess the appropriateness of the officer's response.

Another area where errors frequently occur is in the justification for using force. Often, individuals may check a box (e.g., to protect oneself or others from harm) without providing a thorough explanation in the "other" section when it is necessary. This failure to elucidate can lead to ambiguity and questions regarding the officer's decision-making process. A Use of Force Report must convey a clear and justified reason for any action taken, something that cannot be achieved through checkboxes alone.

In addition, there's a tendency to inadequately describe the weapons used during the incident. Simply marking "firearm" or "knife" without specifying the type or how it was used does not give a full account of the situation. For example, specifying whether a firearm was brandished or discharged, and in what manner, greatly affects the perceived severity and justification of force used. Comprehensive details about weapons used are critical for a thorough and accurate understanding of the incident.

Lastly, inaccuracies or lack of information concerning the outcome of the use of force, such as the extent of any injuries sustained, is another common mistake. When reports fail to describe if and how injuries were treated, it leaves a significant gap in the record. Such details are crucial for assessing the immediate aftereffects of the force used and for understanding the broader implications of the incident.

In conclusion, precision, comprehensive details, and clear justification are essential components of a reliable Use of Force Report. These common mistakes can compromise the report's integrity and have far-reaching consequences. Ensuring that all sections are accurately and thoroughly completed is paramount in reflecting the true nature of the incident.

When preparing or reviewing a Use of Force Report, several other forms and documents often come into play to ensure a comprehensive understanding and documentation of the event. These forms and documents are crucial for law enforcement agencies in maintaining transparency, accountability, and legality in their operations. Below is a list of documents typically used alongside the Use of Force Report form.

• Incident Report: This is a detailed account of the event leading up to and including the use of force. It contextualizes the situation and provides insight into why force was deemed necessary.
• Arrest Report: If the situation led to an arrest, this document outlines the charges, the arrest procedure, and any immediate aftermath, linking the use of force to the enforcement action taken.
• Medical Report: When there are injuries, a medical report from a healthcare professional documents the extent and nature of those injuries. This can be for both the suspect and the officer involved.
• Witness Statements: These are accounts from individuals who saw the incident. They provide additional perspectives that might support or challenge the official narrative.
• Body-Worn Camera Footage: Many law enforcement officers wear body cameras. The footage can serve as an objective viewpoint of the incident, often used in investigations and reviews.
• Vehicle Pursuit Report: If the use of force incident involved a vehicle pursuit, this report documents the pursuit's details, including reasons for the pursuit, speeds, routes taken, and how it ended.
• Property Damage Report: If there was any property damage as a result of the incident, this report details the extent of the damage and the value of the property involved.
• Supervisor's Review Report: After reviewing all details and evidence, a supervisor’s report provides an assessment of the use of force, determining if it was within policy and justifiable.
• Photographic Evidence: Photos of the scene, injuries, weapons, or any relevant evidence that can visually document what occurred before, during, and after the incident.
• Training Records: The officer's training records may be reviewed to determine if the force used was consistent with their training and the department's policies on the use of force.

It's critical for law enforcement agencies to compile, review, and store these documents carefully. Not only do they form an integral part of legal proceedings, but they also play a vital role in public trust and accountability. Moreover, they provide invaluable insights for training and policy review, potentially guiding future actions and minimizing the risk of harm to both officers and the populations they serve.

The "Use of Force Report" form shares similarities with the "Incident Report" used by law enforcement. Both documents require a detailed description of an event, including the type of incident, location, time, and participants involved. However, while the "Use of Force Report" specifically focuses on the circumstances surrounding the use of force by a police officer, the "Incident Report" is more general, covering a wide range of occurrences from accidents to crimes.

Another document akin to the "Use of Force Report" is the "Arrest Report." This form documents the arrest of an individual, detailing their personal information, the reason for the arrest, and the arresting officer’s details. Similar to the "Use of Force Report," it often includes information on resistance by the suspect and any force applied during the arrest, albeit within a broader context of securing the suspect’s custody.

The "Body-Worn Camera (BWC) Report" also parallels the "Use of Force Report." Both forms capture critical information regarding police interactions that may involve use of force. The significant difference lies in the medium; the "BWC Report" accompanies audio-visual evidence captured by the officer’s body camera. Regardless, both mediums aim to provide transparency and a record of the incident from the officer’s perspective.

A "Traffic Stop Report," while primarily used for documenting details of vehicle stops for violations or investigative reasons, shares commonalities with the "Use of Force Report." It records an encounter’s specifics, including the location, time, and nature of the infringement. If the stop escalates to the use of force, the report may detail such incidences, similarly capturing the justification and circumstances surrounding the force applied.

Similar to the "Use of Force Report," the "Complaint Form" used by police oversight bodies documents specific allegations against police conduct. While it primarily focuses on gathering the complainant's account of an incident, it may include narratives that describe the use of force, requiring detailed information on the incident’s context, involved parties, and outcomes.

The "Tactical Operation Plan" document, though more of a pre-incident tool, bears relevance to the "Use of Force Report" in its concern for detail and preparedness. This plan outlines the operation's objectives, resources, personnel involved, and anticipated challenges, including potential use of force scenarios. Post-operation, this document can be cross-referenced with "Use of Force Reports" to assess adherence to planned actions and justifications for any deviations.

Lastly, the "Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Report" complements the "Use of Force Report" in cases where force results in injury. The EMS report details the medical assessment and treatment provided to individuals at the scene or in transit to a medical facility. While it primarily focuses on the medical aspect, it provides an objective secondary account of the injuries that could be compared against use of force documentation to ensure consistency and accuracy of records.

When filling out the Use of Force Report form, it's crucial to maintain clarity, accuracy, and integrity. Below are recommendations on what you should and shouldn't do:

• Provide complete and accurate information: Ensure every section is filled out comprehensively. Leaving out details can lead to misunderstandings or incomplete assessments of the situation.
• Be objective and descriptive: Describe the incident and actions taken without bias or emotion. Use clear, factual language that conveys the specifics of the situation.
• Include all relevant details: The precise activities prior to the use of force, types of weapons used, and the suspect's behavior are critical. The more details provided, the clearer the context becomes.
• Double-check for errors: Before submitting the report, review it for spelling, grammar, and factual errors. Accurate documentation is key to a thorough review process.
• Attach necessary documents: Ensure all required documents, such as photo-copies of the officer's report documenting the use of force or TASER dataport downloads if applicable, are attached.
• Sign and date the document: Your signature and the date affirm that you stand by the information provided in the report.

• Omit justification for using force: Always select or describe the reason for use of force. This is central to understanding the necessity of the actions taken.
• Guess or estimate unverified information: If certain details are unknown, specify this clearly rather than making assumptions or guesses.
• Use vague or unclear language: Avoid broad terms or jargon that may not be understood by all readers. Clarity is critical for those reviewing the report.
• Forget to report injuries: Whether it's injuries to the suspect, officers, or others, detailed documentation is necessary. This includes how and when they were treated.
• Submit without supervisor review: Ensure your report is reviewed by a supervisor. Their insight and approval are part of the protocol to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Leave sections blank: If a section doesn't apply, note it as "N/A" (not applicable). Blank sections can lead to questions about whether the report is complete.

The Use of Force Report form, as utilized by law enforcement agencies like the Anne Arundel County Police Department, is a critical tool designed to document incidents where officers apply force during their duties. However, surrounding this document, there are several misconceptions that can obscure understanding and interpretation for the general public, law enforcement personnel, and policymakers alike. Let’s explore and clarify some of the most common misconceptions.

• Misconception 1: The purpose of the use of force reporting is solely for punitive measures against officers. Many believe that Use of Force Reports are filed to facilitate disciplinary actions against officers. While these reports can be used in investigations, their primary function is to maintain transparency, accountability, and oversight within the force, ensuring all uses of force are justified and within policy guidelines.

• Misconception 2: All uses of force are a result of officer aggression. The form indicates that force can be employed for various reasons, including to protect oneself or others from harm, to restrain or subdue a resistant individual, or to bring an unlawful situation under control. This highlights that the use of force is not inherently indicative of aggression but a response to specific situations.

• Misconception 3: The use of force is an officer’s first response. Contrary to what some may believe, the use of force is generally considered a last resort. Officers are trained to de-escalate situations whenever possible, resorting to force only when necessary to protect life or apprehend suspects posing a threat to public safety.

• Misconception 4: The report covers only physical force. While physical force is a significant aspect, the Use of Force Report also details the use of non-lethal weapons such as TASERs, pepper spray, and batons. Additionally, it documents any weapons wielded by the suspect, painting a comprehensive picture of the incident.

• Misconception 5: Use of Force Reports are kept secret from the public. Although specific details might be redacted for privacy or ongoing investigation purposes, many law enforcement agencies strive for transparency and make such reports accessible to the public or available upon request, fostering trust and accountability.

• Misconception 6: Only the officer involved in the use of force can complete the report. While the reporting officer is primarily responsible for documenting the incident, the form also requires review and signatures from supervising officers and goes through several layers of oversight, ensuring a multi-tiered evaluation process.

• Misconception 7: The form is standardized across all law enforcement agencies. Though many agencies use similar forms to document the use of force, there are variations in format, content, and specific details required. Each department may adapt the form to meet its policies, procedures, and local legislative requirements.

• Misconception 8: Use of Force Reports are only filled out if a weapon is used. The report is required for various levels of force, not solely for incidents involving weapon discharges. It includes physical force, such as restraining maneuvers, and the use of tools like handcuffs or force during an arrest process.

• Misconception 9: The report provides a complete and unassailable account of the incident. While the form is meant to document the events accurately, it represents one component of the investigation. Additional evidence, including witness statements, video footage, and forensic analysis, contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

• Misconception 10: If no injuries occurred, a use of force report is not necessary. Even if the application of force does not result in injury, the event must still be documented. This practice ensures all uses of force are reviewed, promoting consistent accountability and reflection on practices and policies.

Clarifying these misconceptions is critical in fostering a well-rounded understanding of the use of force in law enforcement. Transparency, accountability, and communication are essential elements in building trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

When dealing with the Use of Force Report form, it's imperative to understand its significance and ensure accurate and comprehensive completion. The following key takeaways are essential for both law enforcement officers and the teams responsible for reviewing these forms:

• Complete accuracy is crucial: Every detail in the report must be filled out accurately to provide a clear and complete account of the incident. This includes basic information such as the type of call, case number, and suspect information, as well as more specific details like the justification for using force and any injuries sustained.
• Justification for using force: The form outlines specific reasons for the use of force, including to protect oneself or others from harm, to restrain a resistant individual, or to bring an unlawful situation under control. It's vital that the officer selects the justification that most accurately reflects the situation and provides additional explanation if necessary.
• Detailed suspect information: Providing thorough suspect information, including physical description and behavior prior to the use of force, aids in the transparency and accountability process. This includes noting if the suspect was under the influence of substances, which can be critical in understanding the context of the incident.
• Officer information is just as important: The form requires detailed information about the officer involved in the incident, including duty assignment, status at the time of the incident, and the type of weapon(s) used. Accurately capturing this information helps in assessing the appropriateness of the force used.
• Document weapon(s) used and effectiveness: Clearly describe the weapon(s) used, the reason for their selection, their impact locations, and their effectiveness. This thorough documentation helps in evaluating whether the use of force was appropriate under the circumstances.
• Injuries must be documented: It's imperative to record any injuries sustained by the suspect or the officer, including a description of the injuries and where the injured party received treatment. This information is crucial for legal and medical follow-up.
• Supervisory review is required: The form must be reviewed by a supervisor to ensure the use of force was within policy guidelines. Properly documenting this supervisory review, including any comments and the decision on policy adherence, is essential for accountability and transparency.

Overall, the Use of Force Report form is a critical tool in law enforcement. It not only provides a formal account of incidents involving force but also serves as a key document in the evaluation of such actions. Ensuring that these forms are filled out thoroughly and accurately is paramount for officer accountability, transparency with the public, and the protection of the rights of all individuals involved.