Four stages of interrogation

Techniques > Interrogation > Four stages of interrogation

Formation | Preparation | Interaction | Completion | See also

An interrogation can be broken into four stages, as below.

Formation

Before the interrogation comes the need for it to occur and the mandate to undertake it. Thus a crime may be committed, a suspect arrested and authorization for interrogation to go ahead.

At this stage, the framework for how the interrogation may be determined, including the level of coercion that is permitted or not allowed.

Preparation

Before the interrogator moves into action, a further preparation is often appropriate in which they learn the facts of the case, the desired outcome and the constraints of the permitted process.

This then leads to appropriate research and preparation of methods and techniques which the interrogator will use. As the person being questioned may successfully resist some approaches, multiple strategies and tactics may be readied.

Interaction

This is the main body of the interrogation when the interrogator interacts with the respondent. This generally appears as a series of questions and responses.

All responses should be recorded and the sessions may be video-recorded for later analysis of body language.

This interaction may take place over a number of days and sessions, which may be limited or open ended in the duration that it may take.

Completion

In this stage, the interrogation is completed and the body of information collected is analyzed. In legal situations this may include construction of a case for prosecution or defense.

As appropriate and feasible, the interrogator may return to the previous stage to gather more information.