- Take the time to learn as much about the case as you can. Even before the initial interviews, familiarize yourself with dates, times and basics of the crime. If the interview is later in the investigation, come in with an intimate knowledge of the case. Bring along notes, transcripts, photographs and other material that might help prod the memory of the witness or suspect. Preparation will also help you detect holes in the story or conflicting statements.
- Scrutinize everything about your interview subject. Note demeanor and body language. Is the suspect displaying signs of nervousness or defensiveness? This may indicate a desire to hide something. Observe the person's dress and grooming for clues to personality and lifestyle. Tattoos, for example, can reveal gang affiliations or personal interests.
Pay attention to non-verbal cues. Do witnesses sit with their arms folded? This shows an unwillingness to talk. Do suspects play with their hair, glasses or watches? They may be doing so as a stalling tactic while they think up answers. You can learn as much about an interviewee from what they don't say as you can from what they do say. - Ask only one question at a time, and wait until you hear the full answer before asking another. Ask simple, open-ended questions. Don't confuse the interviewee with compound or complex questions. Never interrupt the interviewee. Often suspects will tell you what you want if you just give them the chance. Give the interviewee your full attention and never indicate you are anything but completely alert.
Sometimes, it helps to repeat what the witness has told you, both as a memory aid and as a way to show that you are indeed paying attention. In other situations, silence may be your best tool. Often people will begin speaking just to fill the void.
There is no set formula as to when to speak or when to remain silent. That's why being observant is so important. It well help you gauge how best to approach a suspect or witness. - Follow proper procedure at all times. A full confession is worthless if it is ultimately thrown out of court. If suspects are under arrest, make sure they have been read their Miranda rights.
- If possible, conduct the interview in a private room or patrol car. People tend to be more willing to open up if they are not surrounded by friends or neighbors. Conducting private interviews also helps control the media, which can be crucial in high-profile cases. Once you have established a rapport with the interviewee, record the session. Video is ideal, but audio is better than nothing. A transcript of the recording will be invaluable if the subject changes the story during trial.
- Try to form a bond with the interviewee. Witnesses especially will feel more relaxed and so be more willing to talk. Start with basics like name, employment and schooling. Break the ice by talking about things you have in common. Use your initial observations to ask about the origin of a tattoo or a design on a shirt.
Take the time to get to know as much as possible about your interviewees. During an in-depth interview, you may spend an hour just on background information. Even if you already know some of the answers, the questions will help loosen up your subjects and lower their guard.
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