How should you handle a 900 code where a bystander is providing information?

• A. Dismiss the information as unreliable.
• B. Gather essential details, assess credibility, and verify information with witnesses.
• C. Immediately arrest the bystander to prevent misinformation.
• D. Log only what you personally observe.

Answer: (B)

When a 900 code comes in with information from a bystander, treat their input as a potential lead rather than noise. Acknowledge them and quickly pull the essential details: what happened, where and when it occurred, who was involved, and any descriptions, weapons, vehicles, or directions they recall. Assess credibility by considering their vantage point and level of certainty, whether their account fits with other reports, and if there could be any reason to doubt what they’re saying. Verify the information by checking with other witnesses, reviewing video or dispatch records, and looking for corroborating evidence. Document the bystander’s information clearly and with a timestamp, so it can be verified and acted on, and follow up as needed. Do not arrest a bystander simply for providing information, and don’t log only what you personally observe if a bystander has useful details to contribute. The goal is to collect, corroborate, and apply reliable information to guide the response and investigation.