Interview and interrogation methods in criminal investigations

Criminal Investigations

This text will concern itself with a number of issues related to criminal investigations. In so doing, it will amongst other things address the various criminal investigation inquiry methods and discuss an investigator's optimal mindset. Further, in addition to highlighting the scientific method and how it is utilized by investigators in criminal investigations, this text will also identify a criminal investigator's major sources of information.

Inquiry Methods and their Utilization in Criminal Investigation

According to Palmiotto (2004), "investigative authorities estimate that approximately 95% of crimes are cleared through interviews and interrogations." The relevance of these two basic methods of inquiry cannot hence be overstated when it comes to criminal investigation. An interview in the author's own words can be defined as "a purposeful and planned conversation between an interviewer and interviewee to collect data pertaining to an investigation or to substantiate physical evidence" (Palmiotto, 2004). In that regard, an interview within the context of criminal investigation seeks to gather crime details while at the same time advancing investigations. It is however non-custodial. Conducted in a more cordial atmosphere in comparison to an interrogation, an interview provides an investigator with an opportunity to gather all the relevant information from not only victims but also witnesses. It is important to note that interviews can be conducted at any stage of the investigative process. When it comes to an interrogation, Palmiotto (2004) is of the opinion that unlike an interview, the same is rather adversarial. An interrogation according to Kenney and More (as cited in Palmiotto, 2004) is "a systematic questioning in a formal situation where the subject is resistant or unwilling to participate." In the author's opinion, the individual being subjected to an interrogation would most likely want to conceal some information from the investigator. It is for this reason that an interrogation is conducted in an adversarial atmosphere, i.e. The interrogation cubicle where the interrogator possesses a certain level of physiological advantage over the suspect. Unlike an interview, an interrogation is custodial.

An Investigator's Optimal Mindset

Some of the key responsibilities of an investigator include the collection and analysis of evidence. To be able to fulfill these responsibilities, an investigator must have a certain mindset. According to Hess and Orthmann (2009), an investigator should not only be optimistic but also confident. Towards this end, an investigator must never be intimidated by the level of education or even social status of the individual from whom he is seeking some information. A criminal investigator must also be able to remain objective at all times. In this case, Hess and Orthmann (2009) point out that an investigator should avoid having an already preconceived idea regarding the case. As the authors note, any personal prejudices an investigator harbors could interfere with his or her questioning and/or investigations. A sober mind is also critical when it comes to criminal investigations. In this case, the investigator must be able exercise self-control while remaining sensible and rational throughout the investigative process. As Hess and Orthmann (2009) point out, proper utilization of both patience and self-control can "motivate people to talk." It is through motivating people to talk that an investigator gets an opportunity to delve deeper into the very particulars of the investigation.

Criminal Investigation: Primary Sources of Information

There are various sources of information for investigators. Osterburg and Ward (2010) identify three of these sources as: "people, physical evidence and, records." When it comes to people, it is important to note that this remains a major information source for an investigator. Information sources in this case could include but they are not in any way limited to informers, suspects, victims, witnesses etc. According to Osterburg and Ward (2010), given the social nature of human beings, information and crucial leads in an ongoing investigation about the possible involvement of an individual in a crime can also be sourced from business associates as well as relatives. As sources of information, witnesses can for example shed more light on what actually took place, how the suspect looked like, etc. When it comes to physical evidence as a primary source of information, Osterburg and Ward (2010) point out that "any object of a material nature is potential physical evidence." Towards that end, the authors give a list of physical evidence typical in a criminal investigation. This could include but is not limited to blood, bullets, narcotics, any kind of impression left behind (such as shoe and finger impressions) etc. (Osterburg and Ward, 2010). For instance, the tire impressions left behind by a car at the scene of crime can help link an individual (the owner of the car) to the crime committed. Physical evidence in such a case can further be enhanced if the suspect leaves other leads i.e. A cigarette at the scene of crime. Records as sources of information heavily rely on the existence of stored data or information that could provide crucial leads in an investigation. For instance, toll calls can according to Osterburg and Ward (2010) be used to establish whether any two or more individuals have been in communication. This can be critical when it comes to proving association between two people who are otherwise denying such an association. The internet according to Hess and Orthmann (2009) can also be considered another important source of information. Here, the author gives an example of a kidnapping in which case investigations can be aided by the ability of an investigator to quickly distribute the relevant details as well as photographs of the kidnapped individual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to note that the sources of information I highlight above are not exhaustive. Care in this case must be taken to ensure that the information sourced is not only relevant but also accurate. Incomplete and inaccurate information can effectively compromise the investigation process.