When documenting use of force incidents, what should officers avoid substituting for facts?

When documenting use of force incidents, officers should focus on presenting clear and factual information. Conclusions should be avoided because they represent judgments or interpretations that do not reflect the empirical evidence of what actually transpired. Instead, documentation should rely on observable facts, such as descriptions of events, actions taken, and the context in which those actions occurred.

Focusing on conclusions can distort the understanding of the situation, leading to misinterpretations of the events that unfolded. For instance, if an officer concludes that excessive force was used without providing specific details or evidence to support that claim, it detracts from the accuracy and credibility of the incident report.

In contrast, statistics, witness testimonies, and statements from suspects can all provide valuable context and insight into the incident, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of what happened. However, these elements should be used alongside factual accounts, rather than replacing them with subjective interpretations or conclusions. Maintaining an objective, fact-based report is crucial in ensuring the integrity of the documentation process regarding use of force incidents.