In what scenario should an officer NOT use their notes?

Using notes for personal use only is a scenario where an officer should not use their notes, as it is not part of their official duties or responsibilities as a law enforcement professional. Notes are intended to assist officers in various aspects of their job, including preparing for court reports, engaging in debriefings, and compiling official reports. They serve as essential documentation of observations, interactions, and details from incidents the officer has encountered during their work.

In contrast, notes can be vital during court report drafting to ensure accuracy and thoroughness, as well as during debriefs with supervisors to discuss incidents and seek guidance or improvement. Additionally, notes provide a reference for completing official reports, where precision and detail are crucial for accountability and legal purposes. Thus, these practices are intertwined with the specific duties of law enforcement and contribute to the integrity of the reporting process; personal use does not apply in this professional context.