Who should submit the use of force report?

The appropriate individual to submit the use of force report is the officer involved. This responsibility lies with the officer because they are directly engaged in the incident and possess firsthand knowledge of the circumstances surrounding their actions. The officer's perspective is crucial for an accurate and detailed account, which is essential for understanding the context of the use of force and for any subsequent investigations or reviews.

In law enforcement and maritime contexts, it is vital that the report reflects the officer's observations and decision-making processes at the moment, ensuring that the report is thorough and accurate. This acknowledgment of the officer's direct involvement helps maintain accountability and provides a clear record of events for any necessary follow-up.

Submissions from other individuals, such as the vessel owner, the agency director, or any witnesses, may lack the specific details and insights that the officer would naturally include, as they were not the ones making critical decisions during the incident. Their reports can complement the officer's account but cannot replace the necessity for the officer involved to submit the formal report.