investigative interview techniques How to Question Someone

Investigative interview techniques are crucial for Customs and Border Protection Officers, who face the challenging responsibility of questioning international travelers. Once you've earned your badge and gun, the toughest part begins: ensuring effective interviews to protect against potential threats. One wrong decision could lead to catastrophic consequences. In the third part of Kazador’s How To Interview Someone series, we explore the difficult art of cross-examination, equipping you with the skills to become a top-notch officer and interviewer. investigative interview techniques

Review

Let's recap foundational steps we've covered in previous blogs. The first part focused on Introduction and Rapport Building, where you explain the interview's purpose and create rapport while establishing a baseline of the person's verbal and non-verbal communication. In the second part, Assessment, the goal is to gather as much information as possible to determine the traveler's truthfulness. Remember the Pareto Principle, or 80/20 Rule: your primary role is to listen more than you speak. investigative interview techniques

Cross-Examination

During cross-examination, you evaluate the person's statements, analyze body language, check law enforcement systems, and determine if further questioning is needed. Step 1: Ensure the Information is Correct At this point, ask for clarification using the Funnel Method of questioning, which shifts from broad questions to more specific ones. For example:

• (Top of Funnel) Can you explain further this section? Talk more about this part...
• (Middle of Funnel) Move to the 5Ws for further details: What happened? Who did this? Where did this happen?
• (Bottom of Funnel) Use direct questions to uncover motives: What was the ultimate goal of all of this?

Understanding the motives reveals insights into the traveler's intentions, aiding in your pursuit of the truth.

Step 2: Present the Suspicion Identify inconsistencies or deception and use direct questions to gather details. For example: "You said you're not working. How can you afford this vacation?" Pay close attention to changes in the traveler's baseline behavior, as these could signal the need for deeper inquiry.

Avoid aggressive tactics, as they can alienate the traveler. Instead, utilize a strategic approach with internal pressure combined with theme-based questions. For instance, relate to their identity based on shared experiences.

Special Circumstance In dealing with difficult personalities, a firm approach may be necessary. Individuals with criminal histories may resist authority, requiring officers to establish control. Techniques like the 'carrot and stick' approach can be effective. Engage the traveler with incentives for compliance while outlining the repercussions of non-cooperation. As explained in the YouTube video Habit 5, 6:01, understanding loss aversion can be pivotal for influencing behavior.

Step 3: Theme Based Questioning Theme-based questioning uses a central theme to guide your questions towards the truth, ensuring it's significant to the individual. For example, if a traveler showcases a theme of being a good parent, you might ask: "When you talked about your daughter, your eyes lit up. It's clear you care for her. I know you wouldn't want her to miss out. What's really happening?" This can encourage openness and foster a connection.

Step 4: Handling Denials When confronting wrongdoing, expect denials. Listening for inconsistencies allows you to challenge their statements effectively. If a traveler omits critical details, remedy these contradictions with pointed questions.

Step 5: Getting the Truth As interviews progress, watch for changes in body language indicating that a confession may be on the horizon. Employ a gentle demeanor and themes to help the interviewee 'save face' when disclosing truths. As noted by former FBI Hostage Negotiator Criss Voss, using a calm and soothing tone can facilitate openness.

If challenges persist, consider introducing another officer to alleviate tension. Sometimes a different presence can encourage disclosure.

Conclusion Mastering investigative interview techniques is key for successful cross-examination. The approaches outlined here are based on years of effective interactions at borders. Continue seeking additional resources to refine these skills and tune in for future insights on improving your interviewing prowess.