Assault & Battery: How to File a Police Report

Definition of Assault & Battery

Most people recognize the term "assault & battery" assuming that it means being punched, kicked, hit etc. The definition of Assault & Battery is twofold. Assaultmeans the threat of violence. Batterymeans the actual act of physical violence.

How to file the Police report

If you are a victim of assault or battery, contact the local Police department in the jurisdiction where the assault or battery took place.

If the attack is in progress and you are in immediate danger, you can call 9-1-1. The Police will respond and either make an arrest or take a report from you if the suspect is gone.

If the assault or battery is after the fact, you may be able to file the report on-line, over the phone or in person by going to the Police station. Some Police departments may send a Patrol car to your location to take a report.

What you need to file the report

You will need proper identification to start the report, a complete and full account of the assault or battery. You may provide any pictures of any injuries or Doctor Notes, any information on the suspect and witness information.

Why file a report

You are filing an assault or battery report for several reasons. First, if someone has hurt you for no reason then it is your choice to have that person arrested, answer in a court of law for what they did and be responsible for any damages.

Filing Police reports also help the Police track where crime is occurring so they can put more Police resources in the areas where crime is highest.

Conclusion

Filing an assault or battery report with the Police is a simple process. The Police will fill out a report from your account of the situation and any witness statements.

Make sure, once you file a Police report that you always get your Police report case number and either a receipt that you filed a report or an actual copy of the report for your records.

Article also posted on Triond by Scott Hallock