Interview Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real LAPD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Interview Procedures flashcards as text
California Penal Code 859.5 requires electronic recording of custodial interrogations specifically in:
Answer: Homicide and sexual assault cases
California Penal Code 859.5 mandates electronic recording of custodial interrogations in homicide and sexual assault cases to preserve an accurate record.
A written witness statement is most reliable and legally useful when:
Answer: Reviewed by the witness, corrected as needed, and signed by them
A statement reviewed, corrected if necessary, and signed by the witness verifies its accuracy and provides authentication for use in court.
The primary purpose of documenting a police interview in an official report is to:
Answer: Create an admissible, accurate record for prosecution and accountability
Official documentation creates a legally admissible record that supports prosecution, enables defense review, and ensures departmental accountability.
If a recording device fails during a custodial interrogation, the officer should:
Answer: Document the malfunction, preserve any prior recordings, and note statements made
Equipment failure must be documented; any prior recordings should be preserved and statements made during the outage should be carefully noted in the report.
"Chain of custody" for recorded interview evidence refers to:
Answer: Documentation tracking who handled the evidence, when, and under what conditions
Chain of custody documents every transfer and handling of evidence from collection through court presentation to demonstrate its integrity.
Which information is essential in a documented interview report?
Answer: Date, time, location, participants, rights advisements, and substance of the exchange
A complete report captures logistical details, rights advisements given, all participants involved, and an accurate summary of the exchange.
An officer's handwritten notes taken during an interview:
Answer: May be requested by the defense through discovery and must be complete and accurate
Interview notes are potentially discoverable by the defense and must be accurate, complete, and retained in accordance with department policy.