An analysis of factors affecting suspect interrogations in a sample of Texas police agencies.

摘要

This study examined factors affecting suspect interrogation from a quantitative and qualitative perspective. In the quantitative analysis (N=43), survey data was collected through the Texas Law Enforcement Management and Statistics Program. A factor analysis indicated that interrogation-related evidence and physical evidence represented two constructs that were distinctly different. The data showed that one factor accounted for approximately seventy-percent of the common variance in the scale. The one-factor solution was primarily defined by corroborating testimonial evidence as opposed to physical evidence.; In the qualitative analysis, fifteen (N=15) face-to-face interviews were conducted with senior level and supervisory police officers in five major suburban areas in Texas. Data was collected regarding their perceptions of factors affecting suspect interrogations. The results showed that while the interrogation strategy is an important tool affecting interrogation outcome, most strategies couldn't be categorized as exclusively effective or ineffective. However, some respondents believed that the use of praise or flattery and confronting the suspect with evidence of their guilt were counterproductive to the interrogation process. This finding suggests that police interrogators engage in somewhat of a cost-benefit analysis when deciding the best approach to suspect interrogations.; Consistent with existing research, the present study showed that police interrogators had mixed perceptions about the affect of legal variables on suspect interrogations. Most reported that the Miranda requirement did not impede suspect interrogations; however, suspects occupying higher-status positions and repeat offenders were believed to invoke their rights more frequently. Likewise, most believed that noncustodial interrogations were more effective than custodial interrogations.; The study showed that the majority of participants believed that the age of the suspect was most influential extralegal variable affecting interrogation outcomes. Most respondents also reported that the victim's unwillingness to prosecute was the most common obstacle to investigations resulting in exceptional clearances. The study concludes that suspect interrogation is a valuable tool that has far-reaching effects for law enforcement.; Key words. Suspect interrogation, corroborating evidence, clearances, criminal investigation