Which item is NOT typically included in a use-of-force report?

• A. Weather conditions at scene
• B. Description of how force was applied
• C. Size and weight of the subject
• D. Availability of back-up

Answer: (A)

The use-of-force report focuses on what was done, how it was done, and why it was deemed necessary. It documents the sequence of actions, the specific force used, the officers involved, the subject’s behavior, any injuries or medical responses, and factors that affected safety and decision-making, such as back-up status.

Weather conditions at the scene aren’t central to explaining the force used. They matter only if they directly impacted safety or tactics; otherwise they’re outside the core record of force decisions. In contrast, describing how the force was applied is essential to show the methods, techniques, duration, and control measures used. The size and weight of the subject help convey risk factors that justified the level of force, and availability of back-up informs the context in which decisions were made and the safety of everyone involved.