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Report Writing
I. INTRODUCTION
Despite its drudgery, report writing is a core and mandatory function throughout the investiga-
tive process. Report writing—that is, the compilation, drafting, and authorship of various reports
and documents relating to an investigative case—serves as the formal record of investigative
steps and practices. Reports are crucial to historical accuracy and ensure an objective appraisal of
events and conditions surrounding the case at hand. Reports also promote professional best prac-
tices for the security industry. And yet the quality of report writing remains, as Tim Dees puts it, an
“ill at the top ...