Interrogations

1. Preparation & Legal Considerations

  • Review the Case: Go over evidence, witness statements, and suspect background before questioning.

  • Set Objectives: Determine whether you need a confession, clarification, or more details.

  • Miranda Rights: Ensure the suspect was read and acknowledged their rights.

  • Lawyer: Ensure people are offered legal counsel.

  • Voluntary Statements: No coercion, threats, or promises—statements must be admissible in court.

2. Building Rapport

  • Start with Small Talk: Keep it casual to make the suspect comfortable.

  • Stay Professional: Remain calm, neutral, and in control of the environment.

3. Questioning Techniques

  • Use Open-Ended Questions to get detailed responses.

  • Use Closed-Ended Questions to confirm details.

  • Probing Questions help clarify inconsistencies.

  • Avoid Leading Questions that suggest an answer.

4. Handling Denials & Evasions

  • Stay Persistent: Keep asking questions and revisiting the evidence.

  • Confront with Evidence: Present contradictions carefully—don’t reveal too much too soon.

  • Redirect Evaders: If they avoid answering, bring them back to the topic.

5. Closing the Interrogation

  • Summarize Statements: Confirm key points before wrapping up.

  • Obtain a Written Statement: If they confess, have them sign a summary.

  • Record the Session if possible for documentation.

6. Post-Interrogation

  • Review Notes & Recordings for inconsistencies or new leads.

  • Share Findings with investigators to determine next steps.

  • Organize Evidence for Court to ensure proper legal handling.

Following these steps ensures effective interrogations, admissible evidence, and strong legal cases.