Good, well-substantiated reports are crucial to the conduct of disciplinary hearings, particularly under the B.C. regime. Yet the required content is often poorly understood. This practical workshop will include reviewing a hypothetical report, identifying shortcomings and learning methods for correcting them.

• Understanding the differences between preparing a Crown brief and a report on a disciplinary investigation
• The legal requirements for a final investigation report under the BC Police Act and the directions from the OPCC
• Identifying the relevant categories of misconduct and understanding the essential elements that must be proven
• Understanding the relevant legal framework for the misconduct under consideration
• How to analyse the evidence in your investigation and in your report; the importance of critical thinking and objectivity
• How to deal with witness credibility and reliability issues
• Understanding the standard of proof and how to assess your evidence in light of it
• Disclosure requirements – what to include in the report
• What purposes will the report serve?
• The consequences of an inadequate report
• Practical examples

Before joining the VPU, Sheila Sullivan practiced law and served as a police officer for 21 years, retiring with the rank of Inspector. For much of her career, she has been involved with legal training for police officers and boards.