Interview & Interrogation Techniques Flashcards

What is the significance of 'statement reality analysis' (SRA) in evaluating a subject's account?

Answer: It examines linguistic and structural features to assess whether a statement reflects genuine experience

SRA looks at criteria such as logical consistency, contextual detail, and spontaneous corrections to gauge whether an account is likely truthful.

A Range Officer should conclude an interview by:

Answer: Summarizing the key points covered, thanking the subject, and leaving the door open for follow-up contact

A professional close reinforces rapport, ensures the subject knows the process, and encourages them to return with additional information.

Which behavior is most consistent with a truthful witness recounting an event?

Answer: Occasional self-corrections, expressed uncertainty, and peripheral details not relevant to the core event

Genuine memories are imperfect; truthful witnesses often self-correct, express uncertainty, and include tangential details that feel natural in real recollection.

When a Range Officer suspects that a subject is not being forthcoming, the best technique is to:

Answer: Calmly introduce a known piece of evidence and invite the subject to explain it

Introducing a concrete piece of evidence invites the subject to reconcile their account with known facts without resorting to coercive tactics.

What does the term 'minimization' mean as an interrogation technique?

Answer: Downplaying the severity of the incident to make it easier for the subject to acknowledge involvement

Minimization presents the violation as understandable or less serious to lower the subject's psychological barrier to admitting what occurred.

A Range Officer conducting an interview should primarily sit at what angle relative to the subject?

Answer: At a 90-degree or angled position to reduce confrontational dynamics

A 90-degree or angled seating arrangement is less confrontational than a direct face-to-face setup and tends to facilitate more open conversation.

What is the primary reason a Range Officer should avoid promising confidentiality to an interview subject?

Answer: The RO may be legally or professionally obligated to report what is disclosed

Promising confidentiality that cannot be kept undermines trust and can create legal liability if the information must later be disclosed.