FBI Report Writing & Documentation 3 ā Questions and Answers
Question 1: When an agent must correct an error in a completed report, the proper method is to:
- Use correction fluid to cover the mistake and write over it
- Draw a single line through the error, initial it, and write the correction (Correct answer)
- Destroy the original and submit a new clean copy
- Leave the error and attach a separate correction memo
Correct answer: Draw a single line through the error, initial it, and write the correction
A single strikethrough with initials preserves the original entry while documenting the correction, maintaining report integrity.
Question 2: Which statement best describes the chain of custody as it applies to firearms evidence documentation?
- A list of all firearms owned by the agent over their career
- A chronological record of who possessed, transferred, and stored the evidence (Correct answer)
- A summary of the evidence destroyed after case closure
- A log of all weapons discharged at the FBI training facility
Correct answer: A chronological record of who possessed, transferred, and stored the evidence
Chain of custody documents every transfer of evidence to ensure its integrity and admissibility in court.
Question 3: After an agent-involved shooting, the preliminary report must be submitted:
- Within 30 days of the incident
- As soon as practicable, typically within 24 hours (Correct answer)
- Only after the agent receives medical clearance
- After the full investigation is completed
Correct answer: As soon as practicable, typically within 24 hours
Preliminary reports must be submitted as soon as practicableāusually within 24 hoursāto initiate the mandatory review process.
Question 4: What is the purpose of the 'narrative section' in a use-of-force report?
- To provide the agent's personal opinion about policy effectiveness
- To chronologically describe the events leading to, during, and after the use of force (Correct answer)
- To list the agent's prior commendations and disciplinary history
- To estimate the cost of any property damage
Correct answer: To chronologically describe the events leading to, during, and after the use of force
The narrative section provides a chronological, factual account of events to support accountability and investigative review.
Question 5: An agent discovers during report review that they forgot to document a secondary subject at the scene. The correct action is to:
- Submit a supplemental report noting the omission and adding the information (Correct answer)
- Alter the original report without noting the change
- Ignore the omission if the subject was not directly involved in the incident
- Wait to see if investigators ask about the additional subject
Correct answer: Submit a supplemental report noting the omission and adding the information
A supplemental report transparently adds missing information without compromising the integrity of the original document.
Question 6: When documenting injuries sustained during a use-of-force incident, the agent should:
- Only document injuries to law enforcement personnel
- Document all injuries observed, including those to subjects and bystanders, with descriptions and medical treatment received (Correct answer)
- Rely solely on medical records and omit injury details from the report
- Describe injuries using medical terminology only
Correct answer: Document all injuries observed, including those to subjects and bystanders, with descriptions and medical treatment received
Comprehensive injury documentation of all parties supports medical, legal, and accountability requirements.
Question 7: The FBI's requirement for 'objective language' in incident reports means an agent should:
- Express strong opinions to demonstrate conviction
- Use emotional descriptors to convey the severity of the situation
- Report observable facts without personal judgment or editorial comment (Correct answer)
- Use abbreviations freely to save space
Correct answer: Report observable facts without personal judgment or editorial comment
Objective language restricts reporting to observable, verifiable facts, which strengthens the report's credibility and legal standing.
FBI Report Writing & Documentation 3
When an agent must correct an error in a completed report, the proper method is to: