Police Interrogation Guide

This is a simplified overview and actual practices and procedures can vary widely, depending on the specific circumstances, laws and regulations of a particular jurisdiction, and the individual operative’s training and experience.

It’s also important to note that the goal of a police interrogation is to uncover the truth, not merely to secure a confession, and it should always be conducted in a manner that respects the rights of the suspect or subject.

      1)     Preparation

Before starting the interrogation, make sure you’re well-prepared. You should be as well-versed in the case details, have a clear understanding of the evidence at hand, and have a plan on how to approach the interrogation.

      2)     Starting the Interrogation

Set the tone at the beginning. This is not about intimidation but about setting up a respectful dialogue. Be professional, assertive, and respectful but not overly friendly. Start by identifying yourself and explaining the purpose of the interview.

      3)     Building Rapport and Trust

This is where interpersonal skills come into play. Building rapport is a crucial part of interrogation. Start by making the person comfortable, establish a connection with the person you’re interrogating. Speak calmly and politely, showing understanding and empathy.

      4)     Questioning

Questioning should be structured and systematic, with most or all questions already prepared to ask as well as knowing there potential answers. Start with broad, general questions and then gradually narrow down to more specific ones. This can help you build a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

      5)     Extracting Details

When the suspect starts sharing details, listen attentively and keep track of inconsistencies or interesting points that you might want to explore further. Also, pay attention to their body language and emotional responses as these can provide additional clues such as deception and misdirection.

      6)     Obtaining a Confession

Getting a confession can be tricky and should be handled with care. If the suspect is showing signs of being ready to confess, gently guide them towards doing so. However, it’s crucial not to pressure or coerce them into confessing as this could lead to false or inadmissible confessions.

Every interrogation is unique and you must adapt your approach based on the circumstances of the case and the behavior of the suspect. Always stay within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of the suspect. The goal of a police interrogation is not just to get a confession, but to uncover facts.

This is just a basic guide and should not substitute for proper training. Also, always adhere to your agency’s policies and procedures, and when in doubt, consult with a law enforcement professional or legal counsel. The rights of the suspect and the pursuit of truth should always be the primary focus of any interrogation.

However, when conducting an interrogation as a covert operative in an non-official capacity, the dynamics are different to a police officer. Therefore, additional tactics and measures can be employed; manipulation, elicitation, deception, intimidation, hypnosis and enhanced interrogation.