Is a crime scene sketch considered a type of police report?

A crime scene sketch is not considered a type of police report because it serves a distinct purpose that differs from the formal documentation typically included in police reports. While both are integral to criminal investigations, a crime scene sketch is a visual representation that provides a layout of the scene, illustrating the positions of evidence, the dimensions of the area, and how different elements relate spatially to one another.

This visual component is vital for understanding the scene, assisting in the analysis of evidence, and aiding in courtroom presentations. On the other hand, a police report comprises narrative accounts of the incident, witness statements, and investigative findings, which are primarily textual and structured to convey information, progress of the investigation, and legal facts in a standardized format. Thus, while they both play important roles in the investigation process, they are fundamentally different in format and purpose.