Interview & Interrogation Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real CFI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Interview & Interrogation Techniques flashcards as text
Which technique involves the investigator deliberately presenting false evidence to gauge a suspect's reaction during interrogation?
Answer: Deceptive interrogation ploy
Deceptive interrogation ploys, such as falsely claiming forensic evidence exists, are sometimes used to elicit admissions, though their legality varies by jurisdiction.
When interviewing a juvenile witness to a fire, what is the MOST important procedural consideration?
Answer: Ensuring a parent, guardian, or appropriate adult is present
Juveniles must have a parent, guardian, or appropriate adult present during interviews to protect their rights and ensure reliability of statements.
The primary purpose of a pre-interview plan in fire investigations is to:
Answer: Organize known facts and identify information gaps to guide questioning
A pre-interview plan helps the investigator organize known facts, identify what information is still needed, and develop strategic questions.
Which of the following body language cues is considered a potential indicator of deception during an interrogation?
Answer: Grooming behaviors such as touching the face or hair when answering
Self-grooming behaviors like touching the face or hair during specific answers may indicate stress or deception, though no single cue is definitive.
In fire investigation interviews, what does 'active listening' primarily require the investigator to do?
Answer: Focus fully on the speaker, interpret meaning, and respond appropriately
Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee communicates, not just hearing the words.
A fire investigator notices that a property owner's account of events changes significantly between the first and second interview. What is the BEST course of action?
Answer: Note the inconsistencies and probe them with non-confrontational follow-up questions
Inconsistencies should be documented and explored through neutral follow-up questions to determine if they stem from confusion, memory issues, or deception.
Which Miranda right is MOST directly relevant when a fire investigation transitions from a civil inquiry to a criminal investigation with a suspect in custody?
Answer: Right against self-incrimination
The right against self-incrimination (Fifth Amendment) requires that suspects in custody be advised of their Miranda rights, including the right to remain silent, before questioning.