What is a recommended approach to avoid bias in a law enforcement report?

• A. Report only the facts that are observable.
• B. Use slang descriptions to convey tone.
• C. Include personal opinions about the incident.
• D. Exaggerate details to emphasize impact.

Answer: (A)

In law enforcement reporting, objectivity is the goal: stick to what you can observe or verify. The best approach is to document only observable facts—times, locations, actions, physical evidence, and what was directly seen or heard at the scene—and clearly separate what others reported from what you personally observed. This restraint helps prevent personal bias from creeping into the narrative and keeps the report reliable for supervisors, investigators, and the courts.

Slang descriptions, personal opinions about the incident, or exaggeration all introduce subjective judgments or embellishment, which contaminate the factual record and can undermine credibility. If a witness’s statement is reported, attribute it to the source and distinguish it from your own observations, so the report remains clear and verifiable.