The goal of an investigator is to solve crimes. Part of the equation is determining who committed the crime and trying to get the suspect’s confession.
To elicit that confession, investigators are trained in various techniques. However, some of those interrogation methods are being questioned as to whether they are effective or if they just lead to false confessions.
The nine-step process
The Reid Technique was developed by John E. Reid, a former Chicago police officer, who used it to get a confession in a high-profile murder case. The next day, the man recanted, but the confession was used during the trial to secure a conviction. Later, the court determined he was innocent after the perpetrator confessed. Even so, the Reid Technique made its way into interrogation rooms across the country.
There are nine steps to the actual interrogation, beginning with the interrogator presenting the evidence against the suspect. Even though the evidence may be circumstantial, the interrogator wants the suspect to believe it’s conclusive.
The interrogator then tries to downplay the severity of the crime, with the belief that the suspect will find it easier to confess if they believe their crime is less disgraceful. If the suspect tries to proclaim their innocence, the interrogator will keep interrupting them.
The process continues with the interrogator overcoming objections and using empathy and reassurance. Finally, the interrogator will offer alternatives, with one framed with sympathy and understanding. When the suspect accepts one of the alternatives, the interrogator will get the suspect’s verbal confession and then formally document it so the prosecutor can use it in court.
The main criticism of the Reid Technique is that it relies on psychological pressure and manipulative tactics to get the confession. It often leads to false confessions, especially in vulnerable groups, such as juveniles and people with learning disabilities or cognitive impairments.
It is crucial to never answer questions during an interrogation without a legal representative present. They can help prevent their client from saying anything incriminating. Justice isn’t being served if the wrong person is convicted.