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Download Use Of Force Report Form in PDF

The Use Of Force Report form is a crucial document that records incidents where law enforcement officers apply force during their duties. This form captures essential details about the incident, including the justification for force, suspect information, and officer actions. For accurate documentation and accountability, it is important to fill out this form correctly; click the button below to get started.

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The Use of Force Report form serves as a critical tool for law enforcement agencies, particularly in documenting incidents where officers employ force during their duties. This form captures essential details about the incident, including the type of call, case number, date, time, and location of the occurrence, as well as environmental factors such as weather and lighting conditions. It requires officers to justify their use of force, providing options such as self-defense, restraint of a resistant individual, or control of an unlawful situation. The form also collects comprehensive information about the suspect, including personal details like name, age, race, and any weapons involved in the incident. Additionally, it records the officer's information, including their duty status and the specific actions taken during the encounter. The effectiveness of the force applied, any injuries sustained, and the signatures of both the reporting officer and their supervisor are also documented. This systematic approach not only aids in accountability but also facilitates a thorough review process within the police department, ensuring that each incident is carefully analyzed by the chain of command.

Preview - Use Of Force Report Form

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT

USE OF FORCE REPORT

INCIDENT DESCRIPTION

Type of call:

Case #:

Date:

Time:

Day of week:

Address of occurrence:

Weather/Lighting:

Justification

฀ To protect oneself or others from harm

for using force:

฀ To restrain or subdue a resistant individual

฀ To bring an unlawful situation under control

฀ Other (explain)

SUSPECT INFORMATION

Last name:

First name:

MI:

Address:

Sex: ฀ M ฀ F

Age:

Race: ฀ White ฀ Black ฀ Hispanic ฀ Asian ฀ Native American

Height:

Weight:

Precise activity prior to use of force: (i.e. assaulting, fleeing, passive resistance, etc.)

Weapon(s):

฀ N/A

฀ Knife

฀ Vehicle

฀ Bite

฀ Blunt object (type) _______________________

฀ Other:_____________________________

฀ Hands/feet (technique) ___________________

฀ Firearm (type)______________________

Under influence: ฀ Alcohol

฀ Drugs _________

฀ Prescription ________ ฀ Unknown ฀ N/A

Type of clothing worn: _______________________________________________

Injured: ฀ No

฀ Yes (If yes, describe)

Treated by:

฀

Officer ฀ Fire department

฀ Emergency room ฀ Refused ฀ N/A

OFFICER INFORMATION

Last name:

First name:

MI:

ID# :

Race: ฀ White

฀ Black

฀ Hispanic ฀ Asian ฀ Native American

Sex: ฀ M

฀ F

Duty assignment:

Age:

Height:

Weight:

Uniform: ฀ Patrol uniform

฀ Tactical

฀ Plain clothes

฀ Bike Patrol

Duty status at time of incident: ฀ On ฀ Off ฀ Light ฀ Suspended ฀ Secondary Employment

(over)

PD:

401.1

Index code:

401 Appendix B

Effective date:

09-04-09

Proponent unit:

Staff Inspection Unit

USE OF FORCE REPORT (continued)

OFFICER INFORMATION (continued)

Officer’s precise activity at time of incident: (i.e. handcuffing, interviewing, etc.)

Weapon(s): ฀ Firearm (type) _______________________ ฀ ASP

฀ TASER (probe or drive stun)				Number of TASER Cycles _____
฀	Flashlight	฀ OC spray	฀ CS	฀ Hands/feet(technique) __________________________
฀	Canine	฀ Baton	฀ Less Than Lethal Projectile _____________________________

฀Weapon of opportunity (type) ______________________

Describe impact locations:__________________________________________________________

Describe weapon usage:____________________________________________________________

Effectiveness of applied weapon(s):___________________________________________________

Injured: ฀ No ฀ Yes (If yes, describe)

Reporting officer’s signature/ ID & date:

Supervisor’s name & ID:

Comments:

Required documents attached: ฀ Photo-copy of officer’s report documenting the use of force

฀TASER dataport download if applicable

Platoon/Unit commander’s name & ID:

Comments:

CHAIN OF COMMAND REVIEW

	In policy
Reviewing official	Yes	No	Signature
Supervisor

Platoon/Unit Commander

District/Division Commander

Bureau Commander

Date

Forward to Staff Inspections Unit after review by Bureau Commander

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Document Specifics

Fact Name	Details
Purpose of the Form	The Use of Force Report form is designed to document incidents where law enforcement officers use force, ensuring accountability and transparency in policing practices.
Incident Details	Officers must provide comprehensive information about the incident, including the type of call, case number, date, time, and location of the occurrence.
Suspect Information	The form requires detailed information about the suspect, including their name, age, sex, race, and any weapons involved in the incident.
Officer Information	Officers are required to document their personal details such as name, ID number, race, sex, duty assignment, and the nature of their activity during the incident.
Justification for Force	Officers must indicate the justification for using force, which may include protecting oneself or others, restraining a resistant individual, or controlling an unlawful situation.
Governing Law	In Maryland, the use of force is governed by the Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-204, which outlines the circumstances under which force may be legally applied.
Chain of Command Review	The completed report must undergo a review process involving multiple levels of supervision, ensuring that all use of force incidents are properly evaluated and documented.

Use Of Force Report: Usage Instruction

Completing the Use of Force Report form requires attention to detail and accuracy. This form documents the circumstances and actions taken during an incident involving the use of force. Follow these steps to ensure that all necessary information is captured correctly.

Begin with the Incident Description section. Fill in the type of call, case number, date, time, day of the week, address of occurrence, and weather/lighting conditions.
Next, indicate the justification for using force by checking the appropriate box or providing an explanation under "Other."
Proceed to the Suspect Information section. Enter the suspect's last name, first name, middle initial, address, sex, age, race, height, and weight.
Describe the suspect's precise activity prior to the use of force, and note any weapons involved, checking the relevant boxes and providing details as necessary.
Indicate if the suspect was under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication, or if this information is unknown or not applicable.
Document the type of clothing worn by the suspect and whether they were injured, including a description if applicable.
Fill in the Officer Information section with the officer's last name, first name, middle initial, ID number, race, sex, duty assignment, age, height, weight, and uniform type.
Detail the officer's precise activity at the time of the incident and list any weapons used, including specific types and the number of TASER cycles if applicable.
Describe the impact locations and the usage of the weapon(s), along with the effectiveness of the applied weapons.
Indicate if the officer was injured and provide a description if applicable.
Have the reporting officer sign the form and include their ID and date.
Fill in the supervisor's name and ID, and add any comments as necessary.
Attach required documents, including a photocopy of the officer’s report and TASER dataport download if applicable.
Complete the Chain of Command Review section, marking whether the reviewing official has signed off and including their signature, along with the date.

Once the form is completed, it should be forwarded to the Staff Inspections Unit for further review. Ensuring all sections are filled out accurately will aid in the review process and maintain proper documentation of the incident.

Learn More on Use Of Force Report

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

The Use of Force Report form is designed to document incidents where law enforcement officers use force during their duties. This report ensures that each incident is recorded accurately, allowing for accountability and transparency within the police department. It helps in evaluating the circumstances surrounding the use of force and provides necessary information for review and analysis.

What information is required from the suspect?

The form requires detailed information about the suspect involved in the incident. This includes:

Last name, first name, and middle initial
Address
Sex and age
Race
Height and weight
Precise activity prior to the use of force
Weapons involved, if any
Clothing description
Injury status

Collecting this information helps in understanding the context of the incident and the actions taken by the officer.

What details must be provided about the officer involved?

Officers must provide their personal details on the form, including:

Last name, first name, and middle initial
ID number
Race and sex
Duty assignment and status at the time of the incident
Height and weight
Uniform type
Precise activity during the incident
Weapons used

This information is crucial for accountability and allows for a thorough investigation of the incident.

How is the effectiveness of the applied weapon(s) assessed?

Officers are required to describe the effectiveness of any weapons used during the incident. This includes noting the impact locations and how well the weapon functioned in achieving the desired outcome. Such assessments contribute to understanding the appropriateness of force used and can inform future training and policy adjustments.

What happens after the report is submitted?

Once the Use of Force Report is completed, it must be reviewed by the chain of command. This includes supervisors and commanders at various levels. They will evaluate the report for compliance with departmental policies and procedures. After the review, the report is forwarded to the Staff Inspections Unit for further analysis and record-keeping.

Are there any attachments required with the report?

Yes, the report must include specific attachments to support the documentation of the incident. These may include:

A photocopy of the officer's report documenting the use of force
A TASER dataport download, if applicable

These attachments provide additional context and verification of the incident, ensuring a comprehensive review process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Use of Force Report form requires careful attention to detail. One common mistake is leaving out crucial information in the incident description. Failing to provide specifics, such as the type of call or the precise time and date, can lead to confusion later. The form needs accurate data to ensure that the incident is documented correctly.

Another frequent error involves the justification section. Officers may check multiple boxes without providing a clear explanation for their choice. It is essential to select the most relevant justification and elaborate on it, as this helps in understanding the context of the force used. Clarity in this area is vital for accountability.

Some individuals neglect to include complete suspect information. Omitting details like the suspect's last name or age can hinder the investigation. Each piece of information plays a role in building a comprehensive picture of the incident. Ensure that every field is filled out accurately to avoid gaps in the report.

In the section regarding officer information, mistakes often occur with the officer's ID number. This number must be entered correctly, as it serves as a unique identifier for the officer involved. An incorrect ID can lead to complications when retrieving records or conducting follow-up actions.

Officers sometimes fail to describe the precise activity they were engaged in at the time of the incident. This description is critical, as it provides context for the use of force. A vague statement can leave room for misinterpretation and may affect the outcome of any review process.

Another common oversight is in detailing the weapon usage. Officers may forget to specify the type of weapon used or its effectiveness. This information is crucial for assessing the appropriateness of the force applied. Providing a thorough account helps ensure that the report reflects the reality of the situation.

Additionally, the section on injuries can be problematic. Some officers check "No" without fully considering the situation. If there is any indication of injury, even minor, it should be documented. Transparency in this area is essential for maintaining trust and accountability.

Finally, failing to attach required documents can lead to delays in processing the report. Officers must ensure that all necessary paperwork, such as photos or TASER data, is included. This completeness not only aids in the review process but also reinforces the integrity of the report.

Documents used along the form

When documenting incidents involving the use of force, several forms and documents are often utilized in conjunction with the Use Of Force Report form. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose, ensuring that all aspects of the incident are thoroughly recorded and reviewed. Here are five key documents commonly associated with the Use Of Force Report:

Incident Report: This document provides a detailed account of the events leading up to, during, and after the use of force. It includes information about the involved parties, the nature of the call, and any relevant observations made by the responding officers.
Witness Statements: Collecting statements from witnesses can offer additional perspectives on the incident. These statements help to corroborate the officer's account and provide a clearer picture of the circumstances surrounding the use of force.
Medical Report: If any individuals were injured during the incident, a medical report documenting their injuries and treatment is essential. This report can help determine the severity of injuries and inform any necessary follow-up actions.
TASER Data Report: For incidents involving a TASER, this report provides data on the device's usage, including the number of cycles deployed and the duration of each cycle. This information is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and appropriateness of the force used.
Chain of Command Review Form: This document outlines the review process by supervisory personnel. It ensures that the use of force is evaluated by higher authorities within the department, promoting accountability and adherence to policy.

By utilizing these documents alongside the Use Of Force Report, law enforcement agencies can maintain a comprehensive record of incidents, ensuring transparency and accountability in their operations. Each form plays a vital role in the overall review process, contributing to a clearer understanding of the events that transpired.

Similar forms

The Incident Report is a document used to provide a detailed account of an event involving law enforcement. Like the Use of Force Report, it includes essential information such as the time, date, and location of the incident. Both documents require a description of the actions taken by officers and the circumstances surrounding the event. The Incident Report also captures information about any individuals involved, including suspects and witnesses, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the situation.

The Arrest Report serves to document the details surrounding an arrest made by law enforcement. Similar to the Use of Force Report, it includes information about the suspect, such as name, age, and race. Both reports require a narrative that explains the events leading to the arrest, including any use of force. This ensures that the actions taken by officers are justified and recorded accurately for future reference.

The Field Interview Report is designed to record interactions between law enforcement and individuals in the field. Like the Use of Force Report, it contains information about the person being interviewed, as well as the officer involved. Both documents aim to provide a clear account of the encounter, detailing the circumstances and any relevant observations made by the officer. This helps maintain a record of police interactions and supports transparency in law enforcement practices.

The Pursuit Report is used to document high-speed chases involving law enforcement. Similar to the Use of Force Report, it includes details about the suspect's actions and the officer's response. Both reports require a thorough description of the events leading up to and during the pursuit, ensuring accountability and clarity regarding the use of force, if applicable. This documentation is crucial for evaluating the appropriateness of the response and ensuring public safety.

The Use of Force Continuum is a guideline that outlines the levels of force an officer may use in various situations. While not a report itself, it is closely related to the Use of Force Report as it provides the framework within which officers operate. Both documents emphasize the need for justification when force is used and require officers to assess the situation and respond appropriately. This helps ensure that officers are trained to handle encounters with minimal force necessary.

The Officer's Report is a narrative created by the officer involved in an incident. It serves as a detailed account of the officer's perspective, similar to the Use of Force Report. Both documents require the officer to provide a description of their actions, observations, and any force used during the incident. This narrative is crucial for understanding the context of the situation and supports the review process for any actions taken by law enforcement.

The Supervisor's Review Form is utilized to evaluate the actions of officers following an incident. Like the Use of Force Report, it assesses the appropriateness of the officer's response and any use of force. This form includes a signature line for the reviewing supervisor, ensuring accountability and oversight. Both documents contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of the incident and help maintain standards within the department.

The Training Report is created to document any training sessions attended by officers regarding the use of force. This report shares similarities with the Use of Force Report in that it emphasizes the importance of proper training and understanding of policies. Both documents highlight the need for officers to be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle various situations effectively, reducing the likelihood of excessive force.

The Complaint Report is used to document any complaints made against officers regarding their conduct. Similar to the Use of Force Report, it requires a detailed account of the incident in question, including the actions taken by the officer. Both reports play a critical role in ensuring accountability and transparency in law enforcement, allowing for proper investigation and resolution of any issues raised by the public.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Use Of Force Report form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do provide accurate and complete information for each section of the form.
Do describe the incident clearly, including the type of call and circumstances leading to the use of force.
Do specify the justification for using force, selecting the most appropriate option.
Do include all relevant details about the suspect, such as age, race, and clothing.
Don't leave any sections blank unless they are not applicable; incomplete forms can lead to misunderstandings.
Don't use vague language. Be specific about the actions taken and the circumstances surrounding them.
Don't forget to attach any required documents, such as the officer's report or TASER data if applicable.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that the report is thorough and useful for future reviews and evaluations. Remember, clarity and accuracy are key components of effective reporting.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Use of Force Report form is crucial for both law enforcement officers and the community they serve. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Below are six common misconceptions about this important document, along with clarifications.

The Use of Force Report is only necessary for serious incidents. Many believe that this report is only required after major incidents, but it is essential for documenting any use of force, regardless of severity. This ensures transparency and accountability in all situations.
The report is solely for internal use. While the primary purpose of the report is to inform internal reviews, it can also be subject to public records requests. This means that the information may be accessible to the community, enhancing public trust.
The form is overly complicated and difficult to fill out. Some individuals feel overwhelmed by the form's structure. In reality, it is designed to be straightforward, guiding officers through the necessary details to ensure comprehensive documentation.
Only the officer involved can fill out the report. There is a misconception that only the officer directly involved in the incident can complete the form. However, other officers present can also contribute information, ensuring a more complete picture of the event.
The report is only about the suspect's actions. Many people think that the report focuses solely on the suspect's behavior. In truth, it requires detailed information about both the suspect and the officer's actions, providing a balanced view of the incident.
Filing the report means the officer did something wrong. Some may assume that the completion of a Use of Force Report indicates misconduct. However, the report serves as a tool for accountability and analysis, regardless of whether the use of force was justified.

Clarifying these misconceptions can help foster a better understanding of the Use of Force Report form and its significance in maintaining accountability and transparency within law enforcement practices.

Key takeaways

When filling out the Use Of Force Report form, keep the following key takeaways in mind:

Accuracy is crucial. Ensure all information, including dates, times, and descriptions, is filled out correctly. Mistakes can lead to complications in the review process.
Detail the incident. Provide a thorough account of the incident, including the type of call, weather conditions, and the precise activities of both the suspect and the officer involved.
Document injuries. Clearly indicate whether there were any injuries to the suspect or officer. If injuries occurred, describe them in detail and note who treated them.
Attach required documents. Include necessary documentation such as the officer’s report and TASER data if applicable. This will support your report during the review process.
Follow the chain of command. Submit the report for review according to the established chain of command. Ensure that all signatures are obtained before forwarding to the Staff Inspections Unit.