What is the best practice for citing sources of information in a police report?

Using sources within the text of the report is considered the best practice because it ensures clarity and context for the reader. By referencing sources directly in the text, officers provide immediate attribution for the information presented, enabling readers to understand where specific details originated. This approach not only enhances the credibility of the report but also helps in preserving the accuracy of the information being conveyed.

Citing sources in this manner allows for a more cohesive narrative, where the flow of the report can be easily followed, thus making it more effective for legal, administrative, or investigative purposes. This practice is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in police documentation, as it allows anyone reviewing the report to trace back to the source of the information.

In contrast, the options that suggest not citing at all or only doing so for certain types of sources do not contribute to the integrity and thoroughness of the report. Footnotes can make documents cluttered and may disrupt the reading experience, and limiting citations to witnesses neglects the importance of other relevant sources that may provide critical context or corroboration in a case.