Report Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals

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Table of Contents

Discussion 4.2: Disciplinary Procedures
Discussion 5.1: Reporting Systems
Discussion 5.2: Report Writing Software
Discussion 7.1: Modes of Speech
Discussion 7.2: Distractions
Reference List

Discussion 4.2: Disciplinary Procedures

Hutchinson, Keller, and Reid (2009) argue that prisoner discipline is something that should be taken seriously in order to support the goals of every correctional facility. This fact explains why extensive procedures are used to discipline inmates in different jails. Such procedures are put in place to ensure corrections officers impose the required behavior. The important goal is to have maximum effect on the conduct of every inmate (Hutchinson et al., 2009, p. 3). However, I strongly believe that such extensive procedures should not be used. This is the case because positive management of inmates can produce effective behaviors. The approach can also create safe working environments for officers and eventually support the needs of every inmate. Several reports have also been mentioned in the Sample Disciplinary Procedures. Such reports focus on the best approaches that can be used to present new changes in correctional facilities.

There are several steps required when filing changes within a correctional facility. Such steps usually define the essentials of good reports. The seven essentials of a good report are useful whenever implementing new disciplinary steps. The first step is overview. This step is an executive summary detailing the aspects of the report. The second one is milestones. This step indicates the progress or completion of the project. The budget shows the projected expenditure. The next step details the potential risks. The fifth one includes the targeted issues while the sixth indicates the decisions and actions (Davis & Kam, 2010). This section shows what should be undertaken and implemented. The final step includes contact details. These seven essentials can be used to formulate and propose appropriate disciplinary steps for different facilities. Such steps will be used to propose specific actions and implementations that can deliver better disciplinary actions.

Discussion 5.1: Reporting Systems

The Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) obtains and publishes data and information on crime. The information is usually published by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The program has a number of requirements. The first one is known as the Hierarchy Rule whereby the right channels should be followed throughout the reporting process. The FBI also does not accept different hardcopy submissions. Various data formats for submission are also expected by the FBI. Some of these UCR requirements affect the accuracy of the report (Black, 2014). For example, the Hierarchy Rule discourages more police officers from reporting various crimes. The use of specific data formats makes it hard for many individuals to submit their observations.

The National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) is also used to deliver various criminal reports. This reporting system differs significantly from the UCR. For instance, NIBRS requires law enforcement agents to gather incident-level information about various offenses. Such agencies should ensure the submitted data has specific values and elements. The other requirement is that both qualitative and quantitative data should be presented. The data retained by UCR is usually gathered by police officers. The quality of data gathered is also different. The only similarity is that the information gathered by the two systems focuses on crime in the United States (Cooper, Griesel, & Ternes, 2013). The NIBRS reporting system is preferable because it offers qualitative and quantitative information. The information is also accurate and useful for policy implementation.

The purpose of crime analysis is to study various social and disorder problems affecting different societies. It helps police officers reduce crime and disorder in the society. Crime analysis will therefore equip me with appropriate strategies for studying and monitoring crime (Black, 2014). The approach will make it easier for me to identify new practices and theories that can reduce crime. As well, the knowledge will be useful for continued policy implementation.

Discussion 5.2: Report Writing Software

Report-writing software has become common due to the current use of modern technologies. This software generates accurate and readable reports from a wide range of databases. These systems are advantageous because they make it easier for researchers to gather and analyze data. Large datasets can also be analyzed within the shortest time possible. The analyzed information is human-readable. Researchers can present the data using different tools such as charts. Readers can use the published information for various purposes including policymaking. However, some disadvantages are also associated with this software. The software requires that the users are computer literate (Black, 2014). Such data sets are also vulnerable to phishing and hacking. Researchers and analysts can be biased and deliver inaccurate information. Technology also changes fast thus forcing different data handlers and readers to upgrade their systems.

This software is a resourceful tool for a criminal justice professional. The tool allows the professional to consult various databases in order to make appropriate analyses (Cooper et al., 2013). The information is then arranged and published depending on the targeted outcomes. The analytical process also depends on the targeted reader. I will always use different report writing software to make appropriate observations and inferences. The final report can also be easily published thus making it available to different readers. I will also use the software to examine different reports and publications by other professionals (Hutchinson, Keller, & Reid, 2009). The gathered information will be critical towards making desirable decisions and conclusions. I will also examine the aspects associated with different software applications. The approach will make it easier for me to achieve every career objective.

Discussion 7.1: Modes of Speech

People can use various modes of speech to communicate with their friends, relatives, and workmates. The three modes of speech include impromptu, reading, and memorization. A good example of an impromptu mode of speech is when a specific speaker gives his or her message. Popular speakers do not prepare written speeches. They can use sketch notes to guide them. The best example of the second mode is when a president is giving a speech. Such a speech is usually written by an expert in order to make it meaningful. A good example of memorization is when a student is reading a presentation. It is therefore appropriate for individuals to consider the differences associated with these modes of speech in order to have effective communication (Davis & Kam, 2010). Some people use extemporaneous mode of speech whereby they combine some aspects of the above methods.

My dominant speech mode is impromptu. There are several facts that support this argument. Within the past few years, I have been practicing and communicating with different people in order to improve my skills. I have gained the required experience thus being able to plan and deliver formal presentations. This approach makes me assertive and persuasive whenever communicating with different individuals. I am also focusing on the best approaches and techniques that can improve my communication skills. It is also appropriate to be aware of the speech mode of the individual being interviewed (Davis & Kam, 2010). This knowledge is relevant because it makes it easier for the interviewer to identify the challenges and pitfalls affecting the process. The individual will also be able to respond effectively depending on the targeted outcomes. A proper knowledge of the interviewees mode of speech will make it possible for the interviewer to embrace the best tactics and ask relevant questions.

Discussion 7.2: Distractions

Distractions affect the success of every communication process. For example, cultural and ethnic differences will affect the quality of communication. The surrounding environment can also be a potential source of distraction. The mental capacity of the targeted suspect or interviewee is also something that should be taken seriously. The expertise, background, and profession of the targeted suspect are things that can result in disruptive behaviors. As well, interviewers will definitely see various types of stress in their interviewees. Such interviewers should therefore be aware of specific types of stress such as chronic or acute pain, lack of basic needs, and external pressures (Hoffman, 2005, p. 4). Individuals facing a huge case will also show signs of stress. The interviewer should encourage such an interviewee to communicate using appropriate techniques (Cooper et al., 2013). For example, the interviewer should remain focused and listen attentively. Active participation will make it easier for the targeted individual to remain focused and be part of the processes. The interviewees ability to communicate can be improved by dealing with the stressful situation. Effective communication skills will encourage the targeted individual to talk.

More often than not, an interviewee will demonstrate destructive behavior. The existence of geographical and cultural differences can be difficult to manage. The interviewee might offer specific gestures and behaviors that are hard to analyze. It is also hard to interact successfully with an individual from a different cultural or geographical background (Davis & Kam, 2010). Investigators should therefore examine the behavior of the targeted interviewee carefully. This approach will be used to determine if the reactions are due to manipulative behaviors or cultural differences. The interrogator should be aware of the interviewees cultural background in order to get the required results.

Reference List

Davis, J., & Kam, R. (2010). Report Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals: A Complete Text from English Composition to Interviews and Investigations. San Clemente, CA: Law Tech Publishing Group.

Hoffman, C. (2005).Investigative Interviewing: Strategies and Techniques.Web.

Black, I. (2014). The Art of Investigative Interviewing. New York, NY: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Cooper, B., Griesel, D., & Ternes, M. (2013). Applied Issues in Investigative Interviewing, Eyewitness Memory, and Credibility Assessment. New York, NY: Springer Shop.

Hutchinson, V., Keller, K., & Reid, T. (2009). Inmate Behavior Management: The Key to a Safe and Secure Jail. Web.

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