Unit 1: Basics of Interviewing - Note-Taking
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the warm-up stage in an interview?

  • To gather detailed information about the incident
  • To document the interview process thoroughly
  • To conclude and summarize the information obtained
  • To establish rapport and ensure comfort for the interviewee (correct)

Which type of question should be asked during the primary stage to gather detailed responses?

  • Open-ended questions (correct)
  • Closed-ended questions
  • Leading questions
  • Hypothetical questions

How should an interviewer handle the closing stage of an interview?

  • Provide feedback on the interviewee's performance
  • Solicit additional information without summarizing
  • Introduce new topics to discuss
  • Verify contact information and express gratitude (correct)

What is an important factor in choosing an interview environment?

<p>The comfort and safety of the interviewee (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which interviewing tactic should be avoided to ensure ethical practices?

<p>Asking leading questions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior from an interviewee might indicate nervousness during the interview?

<p>Fidgeting and tapping their foot (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which stage is it crucial to summarize the gathered information?

<p>Closing stage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact does procedural justice have on interviews?

<p>It increases the likelihood of cooperation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a well-written report in law enforcement?

<p>To aid in prosecutions and reduce legal liability (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly reflects the significance of documenting the length of time a juvenile is held before interrogation?

<p>It is important for legal reasons and understanding the interrogation conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a report once it is submitted according to law enforcement standards?

<p>It becomes a public record and may be used in legal proceedings (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one aspect of report writing that reflects an officer's competence?

<p>Clear, concise, and effective communication of details (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be documented regarding the interrogation of a juvenile?

<p>The number of breaks, length of delays, and total time spent interrogating (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it emphasized that every important detail must be included in a report?

<p>To ensure that the facts can withstand scrutiny in future proceedings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of a poorly written report as stated in the guidelines?

<p>It can result in a criminal going free or an innocent person going to jail (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What documentation is required when interviewing a child multiple times?

<p>Records of each interview and reasons for subsequent interviews (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which limit is placed on juvenile interrogations?

<p>There is a limit on the total duration and frequency of interviews (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should reports be saved according to agency policy?

<p>As long as required by statutes and agency policies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary significance of using correct punctuation in report writing?

<p>It prevents misunderstandings and ambiguity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key benefit of organizing report information chronologically?

<p>It allows a narrative explanation of events. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it suggested to contact a victim to retrieve missing information before writing a report?

<p>To ensure all important facts are included. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method of organizing information allows for grouping by specific types of data, such as witnesses or victims?

<p>Categorical organization (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does reviewing notes before writing a report affect the quality of the report?

<p>It decreases the chances of forgetting important details. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a key detail, such as a victim's date of birth, is missing from the report notes?

<p>Contact the victim to retrieve the information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary challenges of report writing mentioned in the content?

<p>It is primarily about filling in forms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could be a consequence of using inappropriate tactics during an interview?

<p>Suppression of admissions, confessions, and evidence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies is NOT part of basic interview techniques mentioned?

<p>Strategic deception (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes mirroring in an interview context?

<p>Subtly imitating the interviewee's gestures and speech patterns (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential effect of not using minimal encouragers during an interview?

<p>The interviewee may feel dismissed and cease to engage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is cognitive interviewing most effectively applied?

<p>With victims trying to recall crime events (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might result from creating physical evidence during an interview?

<p>Potential disciplinary action for improper conduct (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of cognitive interviewing?

<p>Promoting psychological discomfort to elicit responses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason for being aware of the power imbalance in interviews?

<p>To avoid inappropriate uses of power (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the term 'minimal encouragers'?

<p>Brief responses that promote further sharing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to signal active listening during an interview?

<p>Checking one's watch or phone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended practice when asking an interviewee to provide a written statement?

<p>Explain the reason for the request and clarify the information needed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is essential when obtaining a sworn statement?

<p>All statements must be preserved according to agency policies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If an interviewee cannot read or write, what is the advisable course of action?

<p>Follow agency policies for preparing written statements. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if an interviewee mentions important information during an interview that is missing from their written statement?

<p>Encourage them to include the missing information in the statement. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is important to remember regarding interviewees who speak another language?

<p>An officer fluent in that language can review the statement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What documentation is required if an interviewee refuses to give a statement?

<p>A detailed narrative in the case report justifying the refusal. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be clarified if you cannot read or understand a part of the written statement?

<p>Ask the interviewee to clarify that specific information. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason why a person might be unable to provide a statement?

<p>They write slower than the statement is being requested. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is crucial to do when dealing with written statements from interviewees who speak another language?

<p>Ensure they understand the importance of writing in their preferred language. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Interview Environment

The physical and emotional comfort level of the interviewee. A comfortable environment increases cooperation.

Interview Stages

An interview has three stages: warm-up, primary, and closing. Each stage serves a specific purpose.

Warm-up Stage

The first stage of an interview. Build rapport, establish comfort, and explain the interview purpose.

Primary Stage

The middle stage of an interview. Collect information about the incident using open and closed-ended questions.

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Closing Stage

The final stage of an interview. Summarize, review information, follow-up, and verify contact information.

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Interview Limitations

Document how the interview was conducted and how the person agreed to it. Some tactics must be avoided by the interviewer.

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Open-ended question

A question that encourages detailed answers and provides more information.

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Closed-ended question

A question that can be answered with a yes or no, or a short answer. Use this for specific information.

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Inappropriate Interview Tactics

Actions like threats, promises of leniency, and creating evidence for use during an interview.

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Mirroring (Interviewing)

Matching an interviewee's speech patterns, gestures, body language, and posture to show active listening.

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Minimal Encouragers

Short statements (verbal or nonverbal) that show you've heard the interviewee and want them to continue.

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Cognitive Interviewing

Recreating an event (physically or mentally) to help the interviewee recall information accurately.

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Power Imbalance (Interviewing)

The disproportionate influence law enforcement officers hold over interviewees.

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Officer Safety

Important consideration during interviews; but not overriding the need for ethical interviewing.

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Rephrasing responses(Interviewing)

Restating interviewee's answers as questions and statements to clarify information or gather more details.

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Inappropriate tactics

Actions that should be avoided during an interview like threats and creating evidence.

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Interviewee

The person being interviewed.

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Unprovoked event

An event without prior actions by the interviewee.

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Written Statements

Gathering statements from individuals involved in an incident, including details about the incident, related people, property, and vehicles.

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Interviewee instructions

Explain the purpose of the statement, what information is needed, and encourage clear and complete descriptions of the incident.

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Review and Clarification

Comparison of the written statement with interview notes, resolving any discrepancies, and clarifying unclear parts of the statement.

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Non-English speaking interviewee

Providing aid for interviewees who speak different languages, possibly using an interpreter.

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Policy Adherence

Following agency procedures and policies when obtaining written statements.

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Statement limitations

Acknowledgement of circumstances where taking a statement is impossible, like medical emergencies or refusal, and document them.

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Oath/Affirmation

Written or recorded statement given under oath or affirmation to ensure truthfulness.

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Statement preservation

Maintaining statements in accordance with agency policies and procedures.

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Interviewee at ease

Creating a comfortable environment for the interviewee to encourage open communication.

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Statement limitations

Documenting reasons why a person cannot provide a statement (injury, refusal, etc.).

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Juvenile interrogation length

Juvenile interrogations should last a reasonable time.

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Interrogation delays

Note any delays before questioning and reasons for them in juvenile cases.

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Juvenile breaks

Record rest breaks given to juveniles during questioning.

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Interview limits

There are typically limits on the number of interviews with juveniles.

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Report Purpose

A report is a written record of events, situations, or incidents.

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Report Importance

Reports help in court cases, reduce liability, and save time/money.

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Report Accuracy

Include all important details; a poor report can have big consequences.

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Report Longevity

Reports must be kept for a specific period after the case, per agency policy.

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Report Public Record

Reports become a public document and can be used in legal proceedings.

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Well-written report qualities

A well-written report is clear, concise, and effective, demonstrating competence and professionalism.

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Report Organization: Chronological

Arranging information in the order it happened, from the first event to the last. Helps write a clear narrative.

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Report Organization: Categorical

Grouping information by type, like witnesses, victims, suspects, etc. Useful for report forms.

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Effective Report Writing

More than just filling out blanks on a form. It requires careful organization, clear language, and accurate details.

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Why Correct Punctuation Matters in Reports?

Using correct punctuation makes reports easier to understand, avoids ambiguity, and ensures accurate information.

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Missing Information in Reports

If information is missing, get it as soon as possible. Incomplete reports are unreliable.

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Body Camera Footage and Reports

Florida law allows officers to review body camera footage before writing a report or statement.

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Reviewing Notes and Statements

Always review your notes and statements before writing a report to ensure factual accuracy.

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Study Notes

Unit 1: Basics of Interviewing, Lesson 1: Taking Good Notes

  • Note-taking is crucial for documenting incidents, events, activities, and statements.
  • Accurate notes aid in report writing, depositions, and trials, allowing other officers to quickly grasp the facts.
  • Notes should record the "who," "what," "when," "where," "how," and "why" of an incident.
  • Notes should include the location of the incident and the location of involved people and items.
  • Record the date and time of the incident.
  • Include details of each involved person (name, address, phone numbers, age, employment, race, sex, physical attributes (tattoos, scars, piercings), etc.).
  • Include detailed descriptions of the incident, including any items used (weapons, items damaged, lost or stolen) and descriptions of injuries (location, type, severity).
  • Document details about property, vehicles (make, model, year, exterior and interior color, VIN, marks, etc.) and estimated value.
  • Detail the precise actions taken during the investigation, including collecting evidence and administering warnings.
  • Include the circumstances surrounding the incident and the timing of the different phases of the incident.

Unit 1: Basics of Interviewing, Lesson 2: Preparing for the Interview

  • Interviews are conversations with people with knowledge of an event to gather information about victims, witnesses, and suspects.
  • An interview is different from an interrogation, where the person being questioned is detained.
  • Secure the scene and your safety before conducting interviews. Check if interviewees are wanted persons and research their background.
  • Consider interviewees understanding (education, intellect, experience, culture, language).
  • Use interpreters, hearing devices or sign language interpreters as needed.
  • Make the interview location accessible for interviewees who use mobility devices.
  • Be respectful and considerate of interviewees with developmental or medical conditions.
  • Organize interviewees by complainant, victim, witness, source, suspect or "other" with potential witnesses. Prioritize order of interviews if necessary.
  • Prepare questions to elicit detailed information about the incident.
  • Use open and closed-ended questions for effective information gathering and clarification.

Unit 1: Basics of Interviewing, Lesson 3: Conducting the Interview

  • Interviews have three stages (warm-up, primary, closing).
  • The warm-up stage builds rapport, explains the interview's purpose and why the information is important.
  • The primary stage gathers information about the incident (open and closed questions).
  • The closing stage summarizes and reviews collected information, asks follow-up questions, and expresses thanks for the interviewee's cooperation.
  • Limit tactics such as threats or promises of leniency; maintain professionalism and impartiality.
  • Use appropriate interviewing techniques such as mirroring and minimal encouragers to maintain and understand responses.
  • Consider using cognitive interviewing to enhance memory recall.

Unit 1: Basics of Interviewing, Lesson 4: Miranda and Laws of Interrogation

  • Interrogation is the questioning of a suspect, intended to extract an incriminating response.
  • Know the difference between an interrogation and an interview: A suspect in custody is the difference.
  • Understand the legal considerations, particularly the Miranda rights of suspects in custody (right to remain silent, right to an attorney).
  • A suspect's understanding of their rights is also important and must be documented, considering age, circumstance and other factors.
  • Properly administer and document Miranda warnings.
  • If a suspect invokes their right to remain silent or to an attorney, all questioning must stop immediately.
  • Follow legal procedures for questioning juveniles.

Unit 2: Writing a Report, Lesson 1: Reports

  • Reports are documents detailing incidents or events.
  • Well-written reports aid in prosecution, reduce legal liability, and streamline investigations.
  • Reports document the who, what, when, where, why, and how and actions taken in a factual and organized manner.
  • Report organization is structured with introduction, body, and conclusion sections.
  • Reports require factual information from witnesses, victims, and suspects; do not include personal opinions, hunches, or guesses.
  • Report incidents that include crimes, officer use of force, deaths, runaway juveniles, missing persons, traffic crashes, or other incidents as required by agency policy.

Unit 2: Writing a Report, Lesson 2: Mechanics

  • Reports need clear, concise, and grammatically correct language.
  • Use correct parts of speech (nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives).
  • Use a suitable tense (for example, past tense) and voice (for example, active voice) appropriately
  • Employ proper punctuation, capitalization, and spelling.
  • Use precise and specific language; avoid slang, jargon, and abbreviations (unless permitted by agency policy).
  • Use formal, professional vocabulary.

Unit 2: Writing a Report, Lesson 3: Elements and Principles of Effective Report Writing

  • Organize all information gathered from interviews and investigations into clear categories.
  • Write chronologically by the time each event occurred.
  • Include all necessary details (names, locations, times, actions); properly identify the statute violated and the elements of the crime.
  • Include all information provided by multiple witnesses, victims, and or suspects

Unit 2: Writing a Report, Lesson 4: Reviewing a Report Before Submission

  • Reviews reports carefully for factual accuracy and correctness.
  • Check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, verb tense and vocabulary choice.
  • Ensure descriptions are clear and easily understood.
  • Confirm accuracy and completeness of the facts reported.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the essential skills needed for effective note-taking during interviews. Learn how to document important details such as incidents, involved individuals, and specific attributes to create accurate reports and trials. Master the critical elements that contribute to thorough incident documentation.

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