Lesson 6 of 9

Lesson 3: The Witness & Report Protocol

Lesson 3: The Witness & Report Protocol

When Physical Intervention Is Not the Answer

If a subject refuses to return property and it is unsafe — or you are not Use-of-Force certified — do not engage physically. Your role becomes Witness & Report.

This protocol protects you legally and gives police the best possible chance of making an arrest.

  1. 1. Maintain Distance

    Do not chase or engage physically. No item is worth a serious injury. Step back and shift to observation mode immediately.

  2. 2. The Full Description Check

    Mentally lock in: Height and weight, tattoos or scars, clothing — focus on shoes and hats, which are the hardest items to change quickly — and the specific items taken.

  3. 3. Direction of Travel

    Watch where they go. Note vehicle license plate, make, and color. If on foot: which street, bus stop, or direction. This is critical for police dispatch.

  4. 4. The Priority Call

    Contact police immediately with a structured report. Deliver your description and direction of travel in the first 10 seconds of the call.

"Theft in progress, non-violent, but subject refusing to leave. Subject is [Height / Weight / Clothing], heading [Direction / Vehicle description]."

The Priority Call Script — deliver this to dispatch in the first 10 seconds