The purpose of a witness statement is:

The primary purpose of a witness statement is to help police document the facts in issue. A witness statement serves as a formal record of what a witness observed or experienced regarding a particular incident. This documentation is crucial because it creates a written account that can be referenced throughout investigations and in legal proceedings.

By capturing the details of the witness’s observations and recollections, the statement provides essential information that can clarify the circumstances surrounding an event. This record helps law enforcement in piecing together the narrative of the incident and ensures that the information is preserved accurately, regardless of when the witness might be called to testify later.

Witness statements are not intended to capture personal opinions or assumptions, nor are they designed to establish a witness's credibility directly. Instead, they focus on factual details that can substantiate the evidence during an investigation. The accurate documentation of these facts is critical in ensuring a thorough and effective law enforcement response to the incident at hand.