CDI

• Preparation—investigator must review the facts at the crime scene and information from other sources in order that he/she would be ready for the questioning. A background data of the subject should be available so that he/she would be ready for the questioning. A background data of the subject should be available so that he/she could adapt himself to the kind, of approach to be employed.
• Approach—this is done through investigators careful selection of the kind of approach to use, which maybe a single kind, a combination of two or the application of all techniques.
• Warming out—this is done by preliminary or exploratory question to clear the atmosphere and promote a conducive place for cordiality, respect and trust for each other.
• Cognitive interview—this is performed by allowing already asking now the subject to narrate his/her account without interruption, intervention and interference. It is only after the completion of the uninterrupted narration that the investigator begins the direct and cross examined-examined
• One question at a time. Multiple, complex and legalistic question should be avoided. One question at a time is desired.
• Avoid implied answer. The nod of the head or any other body language as a response to the questions should be avoided. The answer must be oral, clear, explicit and responsive to the questions.
• Simplicity of the question. A short simple question at a time is required. If the answer needs qualification, then, it should be allowed. Avoid legalistic question such as; who is the murderer; or who are in conspiracy with the subject.
• or who are in conspiracy with the subject.

  Saving face. Embarrassing question on the subject on the matters of exaggeration or honest errors about time, distance and description can be avoided if the investigator will cooperate with the subject “to save his face”. The investigator should not fault or ridicule the subject on these matters.
• Yes and no answers. Do not ask question which could be answered yes or no only. It will curtail the complete flow of information and will lead to inaccuracy.
• Question and answer—this interview as practiced by some investigator requires the interviewee to answer the question posed by the investigator. The interviewee is required to answer on what he/she knows about what is being asked. In the case of subjects of low level of intelligence, the use of leading questions greatly helps the investigator to obtain the full and desired information
• Golden Rule in Interview

  “Never allow the interviewer to conduct nor let anyone to conduct an interview without prior visit to the crime scene”
• Qualities of a Good Interviewer

  Rapport

  Humility

  Forceful personality

  Knowledge of psychology/psychiatry

  Conversational tone of voice

  Acting qualities