Few things are as frightening and stressful as enduring a police interrogation. It is a naturally tense situation in which everything you say and do is intensely scrutinized.
These tactics are designed to elicit truthful information from defendants, even though interrogators bear no duty to be truthful. Since your entire case can hinge on the interview or interrogation, knowing what to expect can improve your performance and prevent self-incrimination.
Building rapport
Law enforcement officers often start by building rapport with the defendant and trying to put them at ease during the early stages of an interview. Typically, this involves creating a comfortable environment and establishing a connection to encourage cooperation.
The Reid Technique
Officers also use the controversial Reid Technique, which includes psychological manipulation to elicit confessions. Officers may use a combination of direct accusations, presenting fabricated evidence and minimizing the perceived severity of the offense to encourage a confession.
Control of the environment
Officers may strictly control the interrogation environment to apply pressure on the person being interviewed. Some examples include isolating the subject and using small rooms to encroach on the subject’s personal space. Often, the intent is to increase the subject’s fear and unease.
Questioning strategies
Strategic questioning is crucial. Officers may use open-ended questions to gather information and follow-up questions to clarify details. They may also employ leading questions or even tell lies to guide the defendant toward specific answers.
Defendants have legal protections during interrogations, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. Try not to be intimidated by the interrogators or the environment.
Instead, call for legal protection immediately and do not answer any questions until your defender is present.