The Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist Handbook

CHAPTER 6 Investigative interviewing

CHAPTER SUMMARY

The background to the PEACE model of interviewing will be outlined, specifically the difference between interrogations and investigative interviews. The chapter will then define what is meant by a cognitive free call interview of a witness and how the model can be applied. The means by which the information obtained from a witness can be recorded in the form of a witness statement will then be discussed. Conversation management will be defined and the importance of constructing a detailed interview plan explained. The different methods of recording an interview and the types of records kept will be detailed. The chapter will conclude by outlining the difference between contemporaneous notes, records of a taped interview and short descriptive notes.

INTRODUCTION

A further critical component of the investigation process undertaken by an ACFS is that of interviewing. This may be the interviewing of a witness, or a victim as part of the evidence gathering process when progressing an investigation. Alternatively, it can be at the latter stage of the investigation when all evidence has been gathered and this confirms that a criminal offence has taken place necessitating an interview under caution with a suspect. Should the investigation have followed the civil route there is still a necessity for an ACFS working in the ...