If it is impossible to take a statement, what should you do?

• A. Attempt to force the person to provide a statement.
• B. Delay the incident report indefinitely.
• C. Document why the person did not or could not provide a statement.
• D. Close the case without a statement.

Answer: (C)

When you can’t get a statement, you must document why the person did not or could not provide one. Recording the reasons keeps the incident report honest and complete, showing what information is available and what isn’t. Include how you attempted to obtain the statement (dates, times, methods), any explanations given by the person (health issues, language barriers, memory gaps, safety concerns), and any alternatives you pursued (other witnesses, related records, surveillance footage). This approach demonstrates due diligence, preserves transparency, and allows the investigation to proceed using the best available information while clearly noting gaps. Forcing a statement or delaying indefinitely isn’t appropriate, so the emphasis is on documenting the inability to obtain one and continuing with corroborating evidence to support the report.