Crime Classification Manual Part I Chapter 3 19
Crime Classification Manual Part I Chapter 3 19
A
STANDARD SYSTEM FOR INVESTIGATING AND CLASSIFYING VIOLENT CRIMES
SECOND
EDITION
John E. Douglas, Ann W. Burgess, Allen G. Burgess, and
Robert K. Ressler, Editors
Preparing
for the Prescriptive Interview
I have
no data yet. It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly
one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts. Arthur
Conan Doyle, A Scandal in Bohemia
Prescriptive
interviewing is a tool to supplement law enforcement efforts in achieving successful
results during the interview. It will also serve to elevate the interviewer’s awareness
of steps that can be applied to increase interview effectiveness. Enhanced
interview skills and techniques are especially fitting in the light of the
Supreme Court’s decision in the case Minnick v. Mississippi (1990), when it
ruled six to two precluding law enforcement officials from reengaging a suspect
after the suspect had requested an attorney. The Court stated that “when counsel
is requested, interrogation must cease, and officials may not re-initiate
interrogation without counsel present, whether or not the accused has consulted
with his attorney.” Consequently, it is best to assume that law enforcement has
one opportunity to interview a defendant. Therefore, the interviewer will serve
the public’s best interest with an exhaustive preparation. If the interview
does not terminate with the confession, neither will it be unresolved with a
burden of regrets.

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