Basics of Interviewing Unit 1

Methods for gathering information from interviewees, including how to handle different types of interviewees and manage their reactions.

A method of interviewing victims focusing on empathy, reassurance, and non-judgment, considering the impact of trauma on memory and perception.

Interviewees who may exhibit challenging behaviors or have responses that are difficult to manage. Strategies for handling difficult interviewees include keeping composure, asking direct questions, and managing stress/anxiety.

Additional questions asked after the initial questioning, if information is unclear or incomplete.

Gathering information from a victim in a way that considers their potential trauma, focusing on reassurance and empathy.

Paying attention to nonverbal cues and emotional reactions of the interviewee during the interview session.

Using questions related to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch) to help prompt memories related to the event being inquired.

A framework for asking questions regarding who, what, when, where, why, and how, to obtain detailed information about the event.

A landmark Supreme Court case requiring law enforcement to advise suspects of their constitutional rights during custodial interrogation.

A state where a person is significantly deprived of freedom.

Questioning of a suspect by law enforcement.

Protects against self-incrimination.

Guarantees the right to legal counsel.

A brief law enforcement detention for investigative purposes; often not considered custody.

A brief law enforcement detention during vehicle stops that is usually not considered custody, if the investigation is deemed brief.

A roadside chemical test to determine if a person is driving under the influence of alcohol.

An objective test to determine if a person in the given circumstances would feel they were not free to leave.

Statement of rights to a suspect, including the right to remain silent and to an attorney.

Juvenile interrogations must be conducted for a reasonable length of time.

Record any delay in a juvenile interrogation, along with reasons for the delay.

Document the number of breaks and rest periods given during the interrogation.

There's a maximum number of times you can interview a child. Understand agency/court rules.

Reports are written documents summarizing events, situations, or occurrences. They're a vital law enforcement function.

Reports aid the State Attorney's Office in legal proceedings.

Well-written reports reduce legal risks for officers and agencies.

Reports save time and money for law enforcement agencies.

In a report, every critical detail must be included to ensure accuracy and to avoid legal complications.

Reports must be kept for an extended period, as they can be relevant years after the incident.

The formal and widely understood form of English used in writing and speaking.

Specialized vocabulary used within a particular profession or field, often not understood by those outside the field.

Informal, nonstandard words often used by specific groups or regions.

Abbreviations, acronyms, or initials used in text messages and digital communication.

The ease with which handwriting can be read.

Using standard English, avoiding slang and jargon, and ensuring legibility when writing reports.

Using quotation marks to accurately capture a witness's exact words, even if they use slang, jargon, or offensive language.

The subject of a sentence performs the action. Emphasizes the actor. Example: "The officer arrested the suspect."

The object of a sentence receives the action. Emphasizes the action. Example: "The suspect was arrested by the officer."

Most law enforcement reports are written in past tense because the events have already occurred. Example: "The suspect ran away."

Maintain the same tense throughout the report (usually past tense) for clarity and professionalism. Example: Use 'saw' instead of 'see' if you are using past tense

Spellcheck tools may not always catch incorrect word usage. Example: 'there' instead of 'their'.

Properly capitalize names of people, places, organizations, and titles in reports for clarity and respect.

Example: "I interviewed Mr. Smith, who lives at 123 Main Street in Anytown, USA. He works for the ABC Company and is the President of the XYZ Club."

Using proper grammar and sentence structure in reports enhances document credibility and clarity, ensuring accurate and effective communication.

Using incorrect grammar can damage your credibility, make the report appear inaccurate, and cause confusion for readers.

When writing reports by hand, use a dictionary to verify the spelling of unfamiliar words to ensure accuracy.