Witnesses

Question 1

If a witness becomes a suspect during an interview, what should the interviewer do?

Answer 1

Caution, shift to procedures for interviewing suspects and ensure the interview is visually recorded.

Question 2

When there are multiple witnesses to a serious incident/offence the investigator should:

Answer 2

Separate witnesses, conduct a brief initial interview with each and gather witness details.

Question 3

True or False: A compliant witness is one who always provides good information to assist the investigation.

Answer 3

False

Question 4

True or False: You should not obtain a written statement from a witness of doubtful reliability as their statement will more than likely be inadmissible.

Answer 4

False

Question 5

True or False: When a witness refuses to talk with you or to be interviewed, then that is their right. You should make a notebook or jobsheet record of their reasons for refusing and your opinion on why they refused.

Answer 5

True

Question 6

True or False: A witness who is reluctant to give information that will incriminate a friend should be advised of the possible consequences of their withholding information.

Answer 6

False

Question 7

True or False: If a special consideration witness refuses to be interviewed but is happy to talk informally about an event, you may still discuss the offence details with them and continue to question them to clarify information.

Answer 7

True

Question 8

Care must be taken in Police interaction with a witness because:

Answer 8

A witnesses’ needs and individual circumstances must be taken into account by an interviewer.

Question 9

Should a person who is intoxicated at interview be treated as a special consideration witness?

Answer 9

Yes, because their ability to give accurate information is affected.

Question 10

The role of an interview support person for a special consideration witness is:

Answer 10

Ensure their well-being and support their understanding of what is happening.

Question 11

A special consideration witness is one who:

Answer 11

Is affected by the nature of the offence or has personal characteristics affecting their ability to communicate easily.

Question 12

A special consideration witness may be described as “vulnerable”. This means:

Answer 12

Susceptible, defenseless, in a weak position.

Question 13

In the engage and explain phase of an interview with a witness who is fearful or distressed about the consequences of making a statement you should:

Answer 13

Consider their concerns, assess their reasons, discuss with your supervisor if a visually recorded interview is required.

Question 14

In general, should an investigator regard a child or youth under the age of 18 years as a special consideration witness?

Answer 14

Yes, because their age and maturity level may mean they are vulnerable in an interview situation.

Question 15

When planning an interview with a special consideration witness (vulnerable) witness the investigator should:

Answer 15

Consult a supervisor to make decisions about the interview

Question 16

When you are interviewing a witness about a serious incident and the witness requires an interpreter you should:

Answer 16

Visually record the interview.

Do not allow the interpreter unsupervised time with the witness.

Avoid using an interpreter who knows the witness.

Use your interview notes to write the statement in English.

Discuss the aim and objective of the interview with the interpreter.