When conducting witness interviews, following best practices is essential to gather accurate and reliable information that can significantly contribute to the investigation. First, it is crucial to interview the witness as soon as possible after the event to prevent memories from fading or becoming distorted over time. Early interviews help capture details while they are still fresh in the witness's mind, which can be vital for reconstructing the sequence of events accurately. During the interview, it is important to ensure that an audio recording is made. Audio recordings capture not only the content of the witness's statements but also the tone, pauses, and any emotional nuances that might be significant. This comprehensive record is invaluable for later review and analysis. After the interview, document the facts from the audio recording in written form. This written documentation serves as a clear and organized account of the witness's testimony, making it easier to reference and cross-check with other evidence. Written records also provide a structured way to highlight key points and discrepancies that may need further exploration.
To preserve the authenticity of the witness’s account, it is essential to avoid influencing the witness during the interview. This is best achieved by conducting interviews individually, without the presence of others who might sway the witness's recollection. Additionally, avoid interrupting the witness; allow them to narrate their experience fully before asking follow-up questions. This approach helps ensure that the narrative is their own and not shaped by external suggestions.
Finally, it is important to validate the witness statement for consistency. Review the testimony carefully to identify any contradictions or unclear points and seek clarification if necessary. Maintaining contact with the witness after the interview can also be beneficial, as they may recall additional information or details that surface later.
Our new app support authorities to collect witness statements. The data can be analyzed on site and post processed for consistency check. The app is supported on windows, IOS and android.
