Policing and its dynamics have evolved significantly over the years. Yet, the core mission of protecting life and property remains a constant. One might compare policing to football, where blocking and tackling are fundamental to success, and all other strategies and maneuvers stem from these core tactics.
In the context of policing, communication skills and report writing can be likened to blocking and tackling. These fundamental skills are pivotal for a police officer's success, even as they are pulled in different directions and asked to perform numerous roles. The role of communication in maintaining public safety and order cannot be overemphasized. Through effective communication, law enforcement officers can establish trust and rapport with community members. This trust is a crucial step towards fostering cooperation between the police and the public, leading to safer communities.
A study by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) highlights the importance of communication skills in policing. The study found that officers with strong communication skills are often more effective in resolving conflicts without resorting to physical force. They are also less likely to become involved in situations that lead to complaints, lawsuits, or physical injuries. This finding resonates with the findings of the Police Executive Research Forum, where they outlined the importance of communication in de-escalating potentially volatile situations.
Report writing is another essential skill for police officers. An accurately written report serves multiple purposes. It forms the basis for prosecution in criminal cases, provides a record of events for future reference, and aids in decision-making processes at various levels of the criminal justice system. Furthermore, it serves as a tool to evaluate an officer's performance and professionalism. A poorly written report can undermine the credibility of an officer, tarnish the image of the police department, and potentially jeopardize a criminal case.
Yet, as essential as these skills are, they are often overlooked in the face of modern challenges. The role of police officers has expanded beyond traditional law enforcement. They are now expected to act as social workers, mental health experts, and community builders. They are often the first responders in crisis situations, requiring them to have a wide range of skills and knowledge.
While these expanded roles are important, they should not overshadow the fundamental skills needed for effective policing. Police departments must ensure that their officers are well-trained in communication and report writing. They should also continuously provide opportunities for officers to improve these skills.
The need for communication and report writing training goes beyond individual officers. It should be incorporated into the broader organizational culture of police departments. A culture that values these skills will likely produce officers who can effectively protect life and property while maintaining strong community relations.
The challenges faced by today's police officers are complex and multifaceted. While it's important to adapt to these changes, we must not lose sight of the fundamentals. Just like in football, the blocking and tackling – or, in this case, communication and report writing – will always be at the core of effective policing.
International Association of Chiefs of Police. "Training Key #574: Communication Skills and De-escalation." The Police Chief 78, no. 4 (2011): 56-57. Police Executive Research Forum. "Re-Engineering Training on Police Use of Force." (2015).