1 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interviewing Techniques

2 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interviewing Children o Make the child feel as safe and comfortable as possible o Techniques vary depending upon age and the nature of the crime o Questions are prepared in advance o The setting is in a private location o The interview is usually videotaped

3 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Children in the Courtroom o Children are naturally very truthful o Make sure the child understand the responsibilities of being a witness o The judge must consider the emotional impact on the child o Should the child face the alleged perpetrator?

4 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interrogation—Preparing o Review all documentation Witness statement Police reports Physical evidence collected Laboratory reports o Follow established guidelines

5 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interrogation—Physical Setting o Privacy o Soundproof room o Minimal furniture o Speaker system o Mirror/Glass for observation

6 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interrogation—Organizing o Interviewer Establishes control Explains the suspect’s 5th & 6th amendment rights Shows evidence to support the case Body language is very deliberate

7 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Interrogation—Models

8 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Signs of Deception o A combination of behaviors Eye and mouth movements Not looking directly into the interviewer’s eyes Arms crossed Cover the mouth Shifting position abruptly

9 Forensic Science II: Interrogation and Forensic Reporting, Chapter 2 © 2012 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved Reporting Information o Be accurate o Be truthful o Be objective o Be comprehensive