When writing reports, what is the guideline regarding personal opinions?

In law enforcement report writing, the emphasis is on objectivity and accuracy. This is why stating facts only is the guideline to follow. Reports serve as formal documents that may be used in legal proceedings, investigations, or departmental reviews; therefore, they must reflect the reality of the events without any personal bias or subjective interpretation. Including only facts ensures that the information is reliable and can withstand scrutiny, thus maintaining the integrity of the report.

While personal opinions can sometimes provide insight or context, they can also lead to misinterpretation and could undermine the credibility of a report. Therefore, adhering strictly to factual statements is critical in maintaining professionalism and ensuring the report serves its intended purpose without ambiguity.