CLI Interview & Interrogation Methods Flashcards

Which US federal law is most relevant when a CLI investigator records a phone interview without disclosing the recording?

Answer: The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), which requires at least one-party consent federally

The ECPA allows one-party consent recording at the federal level, meaning the investigator (as a party) may record without disclosing, but many states require all-party consent.

What is the primary ethical obligation of a CLI investigator when a witness provides information that is damaging to the investigator's own client?

Answer: Disclose the information fully to the client and document it accurately in the report

Professional integrity requires that investigators report all findings accurately to their client, even unfavorable information, so that the client can make informed decisions.

When interviewing a minor witness, what additional safeguard should a CLI investigator implement?

Answer: Obtain parental or guardian consent and consider having a neutral adult present

Parental or guardian consent is legally and ethically required when interviewing minors, and having a neutral adult present protects both the child and the investigator.

What does the Reid Technique primarily focus on in investigative interrogation?

Answer: A structured, behavior-analysis-based approach to detect deception and elicit confessions

The Reid Technique uses behavioral analysis during a preliminary interview, followed by a nine-step non-custodial interrogation designed to break down denials and elicit admissions or confessions.

In which situation is it most appropriate for a CLI investigator to use a written questionnaire rather than an in-person interview?

Answer: When witnesses are geographically distant, numerous, or when uniformity of questions is needed for comparative analysis

Written questionnaires are practical for geographically dispersed witnesses and ensure all respondents answer the same questions in the same wording, facilitating comparison.

What is the 'PEACE' model of investigative interviewing, and where was it primarily developed?

Answer: A non-coercive, ethical framework (Preparation, Engage, Account, Closure, Evaluate) developed in the UK for professional investigative interviews

The PEACE model, developed in the United Kingdom, is a structured, non-coercive approach to interviews that emphasizes information gathering over confession-seeking and is increasingly adopted in professional investigations worldwide.