When writing field notes, which categories of people should information be gathered on?

When writing field notes, it is essential to gather information on key categories of people who may impact or contribute to an incident or situation. In this case, focusing on officers, inmates, and witnesses provides a comprehensive view of the circumstances at hand.

Officers are crucial because they have firsthand knowledge of the policies, procedures, and the context of the situation, which can provide vital insights into their actions and decision-making processes. Inmates, as the individuals most directly involved, may have distinct perspectives or reveal information pertinent to the incident. Lastly, witnesses can offer independent observations that may corroborate or challenge accounts provided by officers and inmates, helping to create a clearer understanding of the event.

This approach ensures that the field notes are thorough and account for various perspectives, which can be vital for investigations or future reference. It emphasizes the importance of gathering a wide range of information to build a complete picture of any given situation.