Which of the following is a responsibility of a lieutenant during a formal investigation?

A lieutenant plays a crucial role in overseeing and conducting formal investigations within the department. Ensuring compliance with investigation protocols is a fundamental responsibility because it ensures that the investigation adheres to established guidelines and standards. This compliance is critical for maintaining the integrity of the investigation process, safeguarding the rights of individuals involved, and ensuring that the findings are credible and defensible.

By ensuring adherence to protocols, the lieutenant facilitates a thorough and fair investigation, which is vital for making informed decisions based on the evidence collected. This responsibility also involves collaborating with other personnel to gather necessary information and insights that may affect the investigation's outcomes. Having a structured approach to investigations helps in upholding accountability and transparency within the department.

In contrast, the other choices reflect practices that could undermine the investigation's validity or procedural integrity. Writing final reports without review might compromise the quality and accuracy of the documentation, while taking disciplinary actions independently bypasses necessary collaborative processes, and disregarding staff input undermines the collective effort required for a fair investigation.