Need opinion on inverstigation/Interview

[ap3572001]

This might be an old subject, but I would like to hear an opinion anyway.

During an investigation (Crmimianl or IA) , how do You handle an answers like : "I really can't remember".......or when someone say's ," maybe I was there , maybe not"

[biochembruin]

It really depends on the investigation and if the person being interviewed is a suspect, witness, or victim. Maybe you could expand on your question.

[Oneaudiopro]

Hmmm

All lies...........same as when asked if there's anything illegal in their car and they respond "Not to my knowledge".

[Falconis]

Big difference on IA and criminal interview usually. Also like bioc said, it really depends on the circumstances.

If you're looking for a cookie cutter answer, you're in trouble.

maybe I was there , maybe not

as far as the part above, I'll assume that is a suspect's answer. that's where investigatory skills come into play and you have to start digging. on the bright side, when they say that, you basically know they are running low on gas.

[ap3572001]

Big difference on IA and criminal interview usually. Also like bioc said, it really depends on the circumstances.

If you're looking for a cookie cutter answer, you're in trouble.

maybe I was there , maybe not

as far as the part above, I'll assume that is a suspect's answer. that's where investigatory skills come into play and you have to start digging. on the bright side, when they say that, you basically know they are running low on gas.

I guess what I am asking is about a situation where it is REASONABLE for a person not to remember something.

When they say , " I dont remember and I dont HAVE to remember", at that point , in any inverstigation ,You can't say, " NO, You should remember!"

[Falconis]

if it's reasonable, it's reasonable. the way you answer a question can lead to suspicion. answering with maybe i was there, maybe i wasn't is definitely antagonistic at face value.

whatever you're in, good luck

[biochembruin]

I guess what I am asking is about a situation where it is REASONABLE for a person not to remember something.

When they say , " I dont remember and I dont HAVE to remember", at that point , in any inverstigation ,You can't say, " NO, You should remember!"

Maybe it's just me, but I still don't understand what you're trying to ask. If someone doesn't want to answer a question and chooses to be evasive, there's nothing anyone can do to force them to answer. The consequences for being evasive can vary widely depending on the investigation.

[cacop]

If we are talking about an event that took most of the day and they say they don't remember you call them on it. Like if you asked them about being at a wedding and they say they don't remember.

Now if you are asking them about talking to a particular person at that event and they say they don't remember it could be reasonable.

If they insist it is best to move on. What are you going to do go Jack Bauer on them?

[Samuelx]

You little scumbag, I got your name - I got your ash!

[Falconis]

I want to ask what side of the desk you are on, but I know better than to ask

[barca101]

If your a LEO, know your POBR. Before any investigation IA or any subject of any investigation. Make sure you have your POA or DSA rep there. Also, if your a member of PORAC, call your attorney before any questioning begins or IA will stomp over your rights if you don't know it. It doesn't mean your guilty if your seeking defense.

[Unit74]

And if it's an IA, generally your being compelled to testify and if facts are later produced indication your lack of disclosure, there is a very serious issue at hand. Brady for starters....