If an accused person declines to answer a question in their statement, what should the officer do?

When an accused person declines to answer a question during their statement, the appropriate action for the officer is to write "refused" in the appropriate space. This practice is important for several reasons.

First, it maintains a clear and accurate record of the interview, documenting the fact that the question was posed and that the individual chose not to respond. This documentation can be crucial for the integrity of the investigation, as it provides clarity on what was asked and how the accused participated in the questioning process.

Additionally, writing "refused" shows respect for the legal rights of the individual, acknowledging their choice not to answer while still providing a factual statement of the circumstances surrounding the interview. It ensures that the report reflects the factual content of the interaction without imposing additional pressure on the accused, as might occur with a firmer re-asking of the question.

This approach also helps avoid any potential issues that might arise from ignoring the question or failing to document the refusal effectively, which could lead to misunderstandings or complications later in the legal process. Therefore, the response to document the refusal accurately aligns with best practices in police report writing and the overall integrity of the investigative process.