CIG Interview & Interrogation Techniques Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'cognitive interview' technique?

Answer: To enhance the memory retrieval of cooperative witnesses by using mental reinstatement and open recall

The cognitive interview is a scientifically validated technique designed to help cooperative witnesses retrieve more complete and accurate memories by mentally reinstating the context of the event.

When interviewing a potential subject of an investigation, why is it important to begin with 'baseline' questions?

Answer: To observe the subject's normal verbal and nonverbal behavior before asking accusatory questions

Baseline questions about neutral, non-threatening topics allow the investigator to observe how the subject normally behaves when not under stress, providing a comparison point for detecting deception later.

What is the 'funnel approach' in investigative interviewing?

Answer: Beginning with broad open-ended questions and progressively narrowing to specific details

The funnel approach structures an interview by starting with broad, general questions to obtain an uncontaminated narrative, then progressively asking more specific questions to clarify and probe details.

Which of the following represents a legally recognized risk of the Reid Technique that has led many law enforcement agencies to adopt alternative methods?

Answer: Its confrontational approach can produce false confessions, especially from vulnerable populations

Research has shown that the Reid Technique's high-pressure, accusatory approach can produce false confessions, particularly from juveniles, individuals with intellectual disabilities, or those who are psychologically vulnerable.

In an OIG investigation, which document should an investigator prepare immediately following each interview?

Answer: A memorandum of interview (MOI) or summary report capturing key statements

A memorandum of interview (MOI) documents the substance of what was said during an interview while memories are fresh, and becomes a key part of the investigative file and potential evidence.

An investigator notices that a subject consistently averts eye contact and pauses before answering specific financial questions but not others. The investigator should:

Answer: Use this behavioral change as a potential indicator warranting further inquiry, not as definitive proof of deception

Behavioral changes during specific topics are potential indicators worth exploring further, but no single behavioral cue is definitive proof of deception — investigators must corroborate observations with additional evidence.