Which item is NOT typically part of essential documentation for a use-of-force incident?

• A. Objective narrative
• B. Witness statements
• C. Video
• D. Personal opinion of the supervisor

Answer: (C)

The point being tested is what belongs in the written, core record of a use-of-force incident versus what is handled as separate evidence. The essential documentation typically focuses on objective, verifiable facts and observations: an objective narrative that lays out what happened in a clear sequence, and witness statements that provide independent accounts of what was observed. A supervisor’s personal opinion, being subjective, isn’t part of that factual record and can introduce bias.

Video, while extremely useful for review and corroboration, is usually treated as multimedia evidence stored separately from the written incident report. It’s referenced or attached as needed, but the core essential documentation is built from the objective narrative and the witness statements. That’s why the item not typically part of essential documentation is video.