The Interrogation Process PP - Updated 8-14-24

Question 1

What is the interrogation process?

Answer 1

A process where an officer seeks, obtains, and evaluates information from persons with personal knowledge of a crime

This includes individuals who may have been criminally involved in the crime.

Question 2

What is a statement?

Answer 2

A declaration regarding the facts of an incident.

Question 3

Define a confession.

Answer 3

A direct acknowledgment of guilt on the part of the accused.

Question 4

What are the similarities between witness interviews and suspect interrogations?

Answer 4

• Obtain truthful statements
• Ensure admissible procedures
• Allow for independent corroboration

Question 5

What are the requirements for a confession according to Miranda v. Arizona (1966)?

Answer 5

• Given intelligently, freely, and voluntarily
• Given without promise of reward
• Preceded by intelligent waiver of rights

Question 6

What does ‘in custody’ mean in legal terms?

Answer 6

Taken into custody and may be held to answer to a criminal charge.

Question 7

What happens if a suspect invokes their right to counsel?

Answer 7

Interrogation must stop immediately.

Question 8

What does Edwards v. Arizona (1981) address?

Answer 8

The willingness of a suspect to reinitiate interrogation.

Question 9

Does an interrogation regarding a misdemeanor require Miranda warnings?

Answer 9

No difference between in-custody questioning of misdemeanor or felony suspects.

Question 10

What is the best time to initiate questioning?

Answer 10

As soon as practical to ensure information is fresh.

Question 11

What are ideal characteristics of an interrogation room?

Answer 11

• Small (10’x12’)
• No windows
• Quiet
• Devoid of loose objects
• Adequate lighting

Question 12

What is the recommended number of interrogators?

Answer 12

One officer interrogations allow for more freedom and creativity.

Question 13

What should an officer prepare for before an interrogation?

Answer 13

• Know circumstances of the crime
• Read all reports
• Familiarize with the crime scene
• Consider possible motives

Question 14

What should be included in the Miranda Rights and Waiver process?

Answer 14

• Read verbatim
• Have suspect initial each line
• Use a calm voice
• Ask if they understood their rights

Question 15

What are three effective interrogation techniques?

Answer 15

• Direct Approach
• Emotional Approach
• Minimizing the seriousness of the crime

Question 16

What is kinesics?

Answer 16

The study of body movements, gestures, and facial expressions as a means of communication.

Question 17

What are three types of meaningful behavior in interrogation?

Answer 17

• Self-initiated verbal statements
• Prompted verbal responses
• Body language

Question 18

What does the term ‘proxemics’ refer to?

Answer 18

The study of spatial relations and personal space.

Question 19

What might crossing arms and legs indicate during an interrogation?

Answer 19

Defensiveness or resistance.

Question 20

What is a sign of stress related to the mouth?

Answer 20

• Closing mouth with tight lips
• Biting the lips or tongue

Question 21

What does a ‘Freudian slip’ indicate?

Answer 21

An attempt to back out of a statement.

Question 22

What is the significance of eye movements in neurolinguistics?

Answer 22

They can indicate whether a person is remembering or creating information.

Question 23

What are the advantages of documenting suspect statements?

Answer 23

• Complete and accurate
• Legible
• Good for impeachment

Question 24

What are the disadvantages of stenographer recorded statements?

Answer 24

• Requires stenographer
• Difficult to hear, leading to errors

Question 25

Fill in the blank: A suspect's body leaning away from the interviewer indicates a strong desire to _______.

Answer 25

leave

Question 26

True or False: Most people who commit a crime do not want to confess.

Answer 26

False