Interviewing witnesses/victims

Subdecks (3)

What do investigative interviews provide?
Info about the timeline and details of a crime
What is the aim of the interviews?
Obtain the best quality and quantity of information
What is the problem with investigative interviews?
Demanding and difficult task
What kinds of pressure are the police under to solve crimes?
Internal - supervisors
External - Media, public
Usually, there is no other forensic evidence available but CCTV, smartphones and watches are being used more alongside interviews
What happens if there is more than one eyewitness?
New protocol was made - Self-administered interview
Self-administered interview
Given at the scene
Protection from memory degradation
Positive impact on different witness types - those with learning difficulties struggle
Illicits more correct details - increased accuracy of interview
Mitigated effects of delayed interviews during COVID-19
Procedural Justice Theory
Relates to fairness, dignity, respect and due process in legal proceedings
Participation - Being able to present your story
Dignity - treated with respect and kindness - people are more likely to be happy no matter the result if they are treated with respect
Trust
Promotes value of membership within the group