In Memory of David Horn – Pioneer of Investigative Interview Recording
On Thursday, 31st October, David Horn, founder of David Horn Communications Ltd. (which later became the UK branch of what is today Davidhorn), passed away peacefully.
David Horn was a driving force in transforming investigative interviewing in the United Kingdom and beyond, and his contributions have left a strong mark on the pursuit of justice.
He began his career in law enforcement, rising to the rank of Chief Superintendent.
In the 1980s, David Horn served on the original Steering Committee for the introduction of recorded interviewing in the UK – a groundbreaking reform that would fundamentally change how police interviews were conducted and how justice was served.
In 1985, David founded David Horn Communications Ltd. with a clear mission: to develop technology that would ensure the integrity of investigative interviews. His company became the first to create a digital recording solution that fully met UK legislation for interview recording, setting new standards for accuracy and reliability in criminal investigations.
David understood what many in law enforcement were coming to recognise – that mishandled police interviews had led to grave injustices and wrongful convictions, destroying innocent lives while allowing real perpetrators to walk free. He dedicated his life’s work to preventing such tragedies.
Throughout his career, David was passionate about combining technology with scientifically based, non-coercive interviewing techniques proven to be far more effective in discovering the facts. He believed deeply that proper interview recording wasn’t just about technology – it was about protecting the innocent and ensuring justice prevailed.
In February 2021, David Horn Communications Ltd. was acquired by Indico Systems AS, and in March 2023, the companies merged under a new name: Davidhorn – a fitting tribute to the man who started it all.
Today, police forces around the world regard Davidhorn as their trusted partner in implementing police interview recording solutions and methods. This global reach and reputation stand as a testament to David’s vision and unwavering commitment to justice.
David leaves behind his wife Maureen and sons Jeff and Stuart, who continue to carry forward his legacy within the company.
We are grateful for everything David Horn accomplished. His legacy lives on in every properly recorded interview and every innocent person whose life is protected by the standards he helped establish.
Our thoughts are with Maureen, Jeff, Stuart, and all of David’s family and friends.
The 10 Essential Steps for Successful Investigative Interviewing
Professional investigative interviewing is a systematic process that requires meticulous preparation, skilled execution, and thorough evaluation. Drawing from established protocols and best practices, we present a 10-step framework that ensures effective, ethical, and legally sound interviews.
Step 1: Case-Related Preparations
The foundation of any successful interview lies in comprehensive case preparation. Review all available investigation materials, evidence, and documentation thoroughly. Develop multiple working hypotheses rather than pursuing a single theory. Consider the interview’s aims and objectives clearly, and analyse the interviewee’s background, including their rights and any particular needs they may have.
This preparation phase is crucial for addressing all information needs, maintaining objectivity and ensuring you’re equipped to handle various scenarios that may arise during the interview process.
Step 2: Physical Preparations
Secure an optimal investigative interview location with minimal distractions and suitable conditions for effective communication. Ideally, the environment should be distraction-free yet comfortable, enabling clear dialogue without external interference.
Summary
Comprehensive Preparation is Essential – Successful interviews require thorough case review, optimal physical setup with tested recording equipment, and mental readiness with multiple working hypotheses.
Build Trust Through Professional Engagement – Apply the HEAR principle (Honesty, Empathy, Autonomy, Reflection) to establish rapport, explain procedures clearly, and assess interviewee vulnerability and legal requirements.
Allow Free Narrative Before Probing – Let interviewees provide complete uninterrupted accounts using TED prompts (Tell, Explain, Describe), then systematically clarify using the 5WH framework (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How).
Evaluate and Reflect for Continuous Improvement – Assess whether interview objectives were met, analye your performance techniques, document lessons learned, and plan next investigative steps based on obtained information.
Make necessary arrangements for legal representation, interpreters, or support personnel as appropriate to the case. Test all recording equipment thoroughly – Davidhorn’s professional A/V recording systems ensure reliable documentation with multiple backup options, providing the support essential for evidential integrity.
Step 3: Mental Preparations
Maintain an open mind and analytical flexibility throughout the process. Consider alternative hypotheses to the evidence and anticipate different scenarios that may unfold. Show empathy and genuine interest in the interviewee’s situation. Mental preparation involves setting aside preconceptions and preparing to adapt your approach based on the interviewee’s responses and demeanour.
This psychological readiness enables you to respond appropriately to unexpected developments whilst maintaining professional composure.
Step 4: Engage and Explain
Initiating Contact and Establishing Ground Rules. Apply the HEAR principle consistently: Honesty, Empathy, Autonomy, Reflection. This approach builds trust whilst maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring the interviewee feels respected throughout the process. Continuously assess interviewee vulnerability considering age, mental and physical health, trauma, and other risk factors. Implement appropriate legal safeguards and consider specialist involvement when necessary. Utilise communication aids to ensure effective dialogue throughout the process.
At the beginning of an investigative interview, the interviewer should:
Build rapport through empathy and respect.
Assess the interviewee’s well-being to ensure they are fit for the interview.
Clearly explain:
The case under investigation and the purpose of the interview.
For suspects: the grounds for suspicion – explain what and why (without disclosing detailed evidence).
For suspects: the right to legal counsel and the right to remain silent.
All legal and practical procedures, including audio/video recording.
That participation is voluntary (where applicable).
Establish Ground Rules. The interviewer should then set the following expectations:
Everything said matters – the interviewee should provide as much detail as possible, even if it seems minor (e.g., “describe my pen”).
Don’t filter – report everything, even if it seems irrelevant or uncertain.
Focus and effort – memory recall takes concentration and may be tiring.
Open communication – the interviewee should feel free to:
Ask if they don’t understand.
Say if they don’t know.
Correct misunderstandings or raise concerns about leading/inappropriate questions.
Interview structure – outline the topics to be covered, timing, and planned breaks.
Confirm understanding – ensure the interviewee grasps the information and how it applies.
Rapport building isn’t about manipulation – it’s about creating an atmosphere where communication based on mutual respect and facts can occur. This foundation is crucial for establishing trust and obtaining reliable information.
Step 5: First Account Phase
Allow the interviewee to present their complete account without interruption. Exercise strategic patience and maintain control by carefully pacing and actively listening, rather than jumping into questioning.
Use TEDS prompts (Tell, Explain, Describe, Show Me) to encourage detailed responses. Document PLATCOM elements systematically: People, Location, Actions, Times, Communication, Objects and Motives. This free narrative phase often reveals crucial information that targeted questioning might miss. Do not interrupt. Postpone your probing until the first account is entirely over.
Listen to our podcast on Investigative Interviewing
Step 6: Active Listening Throughout
Listen actively to understand the interviewee’s perspective and facilitate the flow of information. Use silence and non-verbal cues to demonstrate engagement. Note inconsistencies, gaps, and areas requiring clarification whilst maintaining supportive engagement.
Step 7: Clarify and Disclose
Systematically review new information, your interview objectives, address PLATCOM elements and address all unclear points and gaps before introducing evidence or new information. If applicable, present key information stepwise to test account accuracy whilst minimising memory contamination.
Ensure comprehensive coverage using the 5WH framework: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How. This systematic approach ensures no crucial elements are overlooked.
Step 8: Close and Inform
Conclude the interview professionally by inviting the interviewee to provide additional information or ask questions. Clearly explain next steps, contact procedures, and timeline expectations.
Express appreciation for their cooperation and end respectfully, regardless of case outcomes. This professional closure may prove valuable for future interactions.
Read our eBooks on how to plan Investigative Interviews
After the interview, conduct a structured evaluation to determine whether the objectives were achieved. This includes:
Assessing the quality and completeness of the information obtained in relation to the interview plan and investigative priorities.
Identifying gaps, inconsistencies, or unanswered questions that may require clarification or follow-up.
Evaluating the interviewee’s responses in light of known evidence and other case material.
This step helps ensure that the interview contributes meaningfully to the investigation and highlights any immediate follow-up actions.
Step 10: Reflect, Learn, and Plan Ahead
Following the evaluation of the content, reflect critically on your own performance as an interviewer:
Analyse your interview techniques – What worked well? What could have been done differently?
Identify areas for improvement in planning, communication, question style, rapport-building, and adaptability.
Document lessons learned to support your ongoing professional development and improve future interviews.
Determine and plan next steps in the investigation, such as re-interviews, new lines of inquiry, or further evidence collection.
This reflective phase ensures continuous learning and helps maintain high standards of investigative practice.
Conclusion
Successful investigative interviewing requires systematic preparation, skilled execution, and thorough evaluation. By following these 10 essential steps and maintaining focus on the core principles of Rapport, Empathy, Active Listening, and Professional Integrity, investigators can conduct interviews that are both effective and ethically sound.
The investment in proper technique and equipment, including professional recording systems that ensure complete documentation, pays dividends in terms of case outcomes and legal admissibility. Remember: the quality of your interviews determines the quality of your investigations.
This episode of our podcast features Becky Milne – Professor of Forensic Psychology University of Portsmouth, who offers an in-depth look at her dynamic career in forensic psychology, from unexpected beginnings to becoming a global influencer in investigative interviewing.
A path shaped by early experiences
Prof. Milne recounts her early inspirations, like her impactful visit to the UN building as a teenager, which set her on a path toward advocating for social justice through her professional work. These experiences fueled her passion for developing practices that ensure fair and ethical treatment within the criminal justice system.
Prof. Becky Milne
Innovating investigative interviewing
Throughout her career, Prof. Milne has focused on transforming traditional interrogation methods to protect and respect the rights of interviewees, especially the vulnerable. Becky highlights how working with police officers who always ask her, “What’s the point?” makes her aware of the practical usefulness of what she teaches and the impact it can generate.
Becky discusses her collaboration with Ray Bull and many others to pioneer techniques that have become standard practice in forensic psychology, emphasising ethical, trauma-informed interviewing, resulting in legislation and practices to strengthen justice.
Global impact and continuing efforts
Reflecting on the last 25 years and the development of the field of investigative interviewing in Europe, Prof. Milne has seen the changing tide, turning from a narrow-minded interrogation stance to an open-minded, ethical and effective interviewing model.
Looking ahead, she is positive about the future and how this approach is being brought out in the world through a growing movement that includes i.e. the Implemendez network. What makes Prof. Milne optimistic is also the technology that has the potential to help with the investigators’ cognitive overload and cognitive biases.
Becky also shares insights into her ongoing and future projects, aiming to fill the current must-needed research gaps around war crimes, sexual offences and terrorist attacks.
Conclusion
Prof. Becky Milne’s journey is a compelling example of how dedication to ethical principles can lead to substantial improvements in forensic practices worldwide. Her work not only advances the field of forensic psychology but also ensures that justice systems across the globe are more humane and effective.
The birth of Barnahus: How Iceland revolutionised child protection
Behind the conversation
In a recent episode of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” host Dr. Ivar Fahsing sat down with Bragi Guðbrandsson in Reykjavik to discuss one of the most significant innovations in child protection services. Their conversation revealed the fascinating story of how a small Nordic nation pioneered a model that would transform how Europe handles cases of child abuse.
Summary
System in Crisis: In the mid-1990s, Iceland discovered its child protection system was severely fragmented across 180 local committees, with children facing multiple interviews and re-traumatisation through the legal process, prompting a need for systemic change.
Revolutionary Solution: Bragi Guðbrandsson developed Barnahus (“Children’s House”), a revolutionary concept that united all child protection services under one roof, providing a child-friendly environment for forensic interviews, medical examinations, and therapy, despite initial resistance from medical and legal professionals.
International Impact: The Barnahus model has since spread to 28 European states, with each country adapting it to their specific cultural and legal frameworks while maintaining its core principle of child-centered protection, demonstrating how fundamental systemic change can lead to better outcomes for vulnerable children.
In the mid-1990s, Iceland faced a startling revelation. A groundbreaking research study showed that child sexual abuse was far more prevalent than anyone had imagined. The system meant to protect these vulnerable children was fragmented across 180 local committees, many serving populations of less than 300 people. Children were being interviewed multiple times, facing their alleged abusers in court, and experiencing profound re-traumatisation through the very process meant to help them.
The vision for change
Enter Bragi Guðbrandsson, who would become the architect of one of the most significant reforms in child protection services.
“We had over 100 cases per year being dealt with in different sectors – child protection, police, medical profession – but there was complete failure of the system to deal with these cases,” Guðbrandsson explains. The research revealed a disturbing lack of collaboration between agencies, an absence of professional guidelines, and children being subjected to repeated interviews.
Building the children’s house
The solution? Barnahus – literally “Children’s House” – a revolutionary concept that brought all services under one roof. But creating this haven for vulnerable children wasn’t without its challenges. The medical profession initially resisted, preferring to conduct examinations in hospitals. The legal community worried about neutrality, arguing that courthouses were more appropriate venues for taking testimony.
Proving its worth
Yet Guðbrandsson’s vision persisted. By creating a child-friendly environment where forensic interviews, medical examinations, and therapy could all take place, Barnahus dramatically improved both the experience of children and the quality of evidence gathered.
The impact was immediate and measurable. Research comparing children’s experiences in courthouses versus Barnahus showed stark differences. While children often encountered their alleged abusers in courthouse lifts or corridors, Barnahus provided a safe, non-intimidating environment that helped children share their experiences more fully.
A model that crossed borders
What began in Iceland has now spread across Europe, with 28 states adopting the model. But perhaps most fascinating is how Barnahus has evolved. As Guðbrandsson notes, “Barnahus is not a recipe for the cookshop of the future. Rather, you have in Barnahus the ingredients to make something that aligns with your culture, your legal framework, and your professional traditions.”
Adapting to local needs
This flexibility has been key to its success. Each country has adapted the model to fit its own legal and cultural context while maintaining the core principle: putting children’s needs at the centre of the process.
A legacy of change
The spread of Barnahus across Europe represents more than just the adoption of a new system – it represents a fundamental shift in how we think about protecting vulnerable children. It shows that when we prioritise the experience of those we’re trying to help, we often end up with better outcomes for everyone involved.
From that first centre in Reykjavik to dozens across Europe, Barnahus stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we’re willing to fundamentally rethink our established systems. It reminds us that sometimes the most effective solutions come not from incremental improvements to existing processes, but from daring to imagine an entirely new approach.
Transforming interrogation: A journey towards ethical interviewing
In the latest episode of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” we had the privilege of hosting Professor Eric Shepherd, a towering figure in the field of investigative interviewing. This episode wasn’t just a discussion; it was a revelation of the profound shifts that have transformed interrogation practices from coercion to ethical interviewing.
Summary
From Coercion to Conversation: Professor Eric Shepherd highlights the historical shift from a “confession culture,” focused on coercion, to ethical interviewing, which prioritises respect, dignity, and open dialogue.
The Power of Respect: Shepherd underscores how treating interviewees with empathy and respect fosters trust and yields more truthful, comprehensive information during investigations.
Overcoming challenges: While ethical interviewing has gained traction, entrenched “confession culture” practices persist. Progress relies on continuous training, education, and a commitment to global standards of ethical investigative practices.
Professor Shepherd took us back to a time when interrogation was synonymous with coercion, a time when obtaining a confession was the goal, regardless of the means. He vividly describes a “confession culture” where the success of an interrogation was measured by its ability to extract a confession swiftly and efficiently. This approach, deeply ingrained in the culture of policing, prioritised results over the rights and dignity of the interviewee.
A paradigm shift in policing
The turning point came when ethical considerations started to infiltrate these traditional methods. Shepherd recalls the resistance he faced when introducing concepts of ethical interviewing in the 1980s. His work was initially met with scepticism and dismissal, seen as an academic ideal that was out of touch with the “real” world of policing. However, these ideas slowly gained traction, illustrating a growing recognition of the need for change.
Ethical interviewing: the new standard
Ethical interviewing, as Shepherd articulates, places respect for the interviewee at the forefront. It’s about seeing the person across from you not as a suspect to be broken, but as a human being worthy of dignity and respect. This approach isn’t just about being morally sound; it’s about effectiveness. Shepherd argues that respect fosters a more open dialogue, which is more likely to yield truthful and comprehensive information.
The role of respect
One of the most compelling moments in the episode comes when Shepherd discusses the transformative power of respect in the interrogation room. He emphasises that respecting the interviewee can lead to more than just ethical compliance; it can change the entire dynamic of the interaction. This respect translates into a more empathetic approach, where the interviewer seeks to understand rather than dominate the conversation.
Challenges and resistance
Despite the progress made, Shepherd acknowledges that the journey towards fully ethical investigative interviewing is far from complete. Challenges remain, particularly in shifting the “confession culture” that still pervades many policing environments. Overcoming these challenges requires continuous education, training, and a commitment to change at all levels of law enforcement.
Looking forward
The episode ends on a hopeful note, with Shepherd outlining the future of investigative interviewing. He envisions a global standard of practice where ethical interviewing is not just an ideal but a fundamental aspect of all law enforcement training and operations. The ultimate goal is a criminal justice system where integrity, respect, and truth are the pillars of every interaction.
Implementing the Mendez Principles: The Power of Training and Practice in Investigative Interviewing
In a rapidly globalising world, the quest for uniform standards in law enforcement practices, especially in investigative interviewing, has never been more pressing. This and a question if Mendez Principles could serve that role, was the focus of a recent discussion with Professor Dave Walsh on the “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” podcast, hosted by Dr. Ivar Fahsing.
The ImpleMendez Initiative: A global collaboration uniting law, psychology, and criminology experts to improve investigative interviewing practices and promote ethical standards.
Training and Adaptation: Rigorous, ongoing training empowers investigators to refine and evolve their skills, ensuring techniques remain effective and fair.
The Mendez Principles: A framework for ethical investigative interviewing that upholds dignity, fairness, and human rights while preventing miscarriages of justice.
The ImpleMendez Initiative: A Collaborative Approach
Professor Walsh introduced the ImpleMendez initiative, a global network that brings together professionals from law, psychology, and criminology to enhance justice outcomes. By fostering collaboration and partnership, the initiative aims to refine investigative interviewing practices and promote ethical and effective methods globally.
Training as the Cornerstone of Excellence
At the heart of the ImpleMendez initiativeis a focus on rigorous training. Walsh highlighted the importance of not only learning skills but also continuously applying and refining them. Regular practice challenges investigators to critically evaluate and adapt their techniques, ensuring interviewing evolves with experience and exposure.
Upholding Human Rights Through the Mendez Principles
The Mendez Principles serve as a global framework for ethical investigative interviewing. By prioritising dignity, fairness, and respect for human rights, these principles aim to prevent miscarriages of justice and establish trust in the investigative process.
Navigating Challenges to Implementation of Mendez Principles
Adopting global standards is not without its difficulties. Legal systems, cultural contexts, and resource disparities pose challenges to the implementation of the Mendez Principles. However, dialogue about these barriers is driving evolution and adaptation, ensuring that these standards remain relevant across diverse regions.
Fostering Continuous Learning for Justice
Professor Walsh emphasised the importance of creating a culture of continuous learning within law enforcement. Robust training combined with adherence to global standards like the Mendez Principles equips investigators to contribute to a fairer and more equitable legal system.
Only 2.6% for sexual crimes gets charged –Patrick Tidmarsh on transforming sexual crime investigations
In the latest episode of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,”Dr. Patrick Tidmarsh sheds light on some of the most pressing issues in the field of investigative interviewing, particularly regarding sexual crime investigations and relationship-based crimes. Dr. Tidmarsh, a renowned expert with decades of experience in both offender treatment and police training, discusses with Dr. Ivar Fahsing the profound impact of his “The Whole Story” concept on criminal investigations.
Summary
Transforming Sexual Crime Investigations: Dr. Patrick Tidmarsh’s “The Whole Story” approach advocates for a holistic understanding of offenders and victims, reshaping how sexual crimes are investigated and handled within policing systems.
Challenging Misconceptions: The discussion highlights critical issues, including low reporting rates (only 5% within 72 hours) and the myth of high false reporting, which is closer to 5%. It also addresses the impact of ingrained misogyny on victim trust and investigation quality.
Impact and Progress: By implementing training programs rooted in “The Whole Story,” investigators have reduced victim-blaming attitudes, improved case handling, and significantly boosted victim satisfaction, paving the way for more empathetic and effective policing practices.
Dr. Tidmarsh’s approach emphasises a holistic understanding of sexual crime investigations. He argues that effective policing must begin with a deep understanding of offenders, which in turn clarifies the experiences and reactions of victims. His approach has introduced new dimensions and tools for practitioners, fundamentally changing how sexual crimes are handled across various policing systems.
Reporting and misconceptions
One of the striking data points discussed in the podcast is the alarming statistic that only about 5% of sexual abuse victims report the crime within 72 hours. This delay is significant, not because it implies any fault on the part of the victim, but because it highlights the immense challenges victims face in coming forward. Dr. Tidmarsh notes that societal and systemic barriers, such as ingrained misogyny within policing, often discourage victims from reporting. Historically, cases involving sexual crimes were not seen as “proper policing” work and were often relegated to the margins of the policing world.
Misogyny and policing
The discussion also touches on the pervasive issue of misogyny in policing, especially concerning how sexual crime cases are handled. Dr. Tidmarsh points out that this not only affects the investigation quality but also impacts the satisfaction and trust victims have in the justice process. However, training programs that incorporate “The Whole Story” approach have been shown to reduce victim-blaming attitudes among investigators significantly and improve the overall handling of these sensitive cases.
False reporting rates
Another critical topic addressed is the misconception around false reporting. Contrary to the prevalent myth that false reporting is high in sexual crimes, research indicates that the rate of false reports is actually between 2% and 10%, more likely closer to 5%. Dr. Tidmarsh emphasises that most people who report sexual crimes are telling the truth, and a better understanding of the nature of these crimes can help investigators identify the truth more effectively.
Impact and future directions
“The Whole Story” approach has not only changed investigative practices but has also had a measurable impact on how victims perceive their treatment by the police. After implementing specialised training and approaches like those advocated by Dr. Patrick Tidmarsh, victim satisfaction rates have shown significant improvement. This shift is crucial in a landscape where trust in the police is critical for effective justice.
Conclusion
Dr. Patrick Tidmarsh’s contributions to investigative interviewing highlight an important shift towards more empathetic, informed, and effective policing practices. His work continues to influence and reshape the handling of sexual and relationship-based crimes globally. It aims to foster a justice system that truly understands and respects the experiences of victims while rigorously pursuing the truth. As we look forward to more innovations in the field, it’s clear that the foundations laid by experts like Dr. Tidmarsh will play a vital role in shaping future practices in criminal justice.
Prof. Ray Bull: Investigative Interviewing Revolution Pioneer
In a world where policing tactics and methodologies are constantly evolving, the contributions of Professor Ray Bull stand out for their profound impact on investigative interviewing. His pioneering work, especially with the introduction of the PEACE method in the UK, has fundamentally changed how police conduct interviews, shifting the focus towards non-coercive, empathy-driven approaches.
Summary
Revolutionising Investigative Interviewing: Prof. Ray Bull transformed police interviewing with the introduction of the PEACE method, shifting from coercive tactics to empathy-driven, non-coercive approaches grounded in psychological principles.
The PEACE Method: Emphasising steps like Preparation, Engagement, and Evaluation, the PEACE method fosters respect and rapport, improving both the dignity of suspects and the effectiveness of investigations.
Global Influence: Prof. Bull’s work has inspired police forces worldwide to adopt ethical interviewing practices, proving that respect for human rights can enhance investigative outcomes.
Professor Bull’s journey began when “common sense” interrogations were treated as the only way to go, often leading to harsh and ineffective interviewing practices. Recognising the flaws in such approaches, Prof. Bull advocated for a methodology grounded in psychological principles, aiming to support communication and generate more honest responses from suspects. This shift was not only about changing techniques but transforming the entire cultural understanding of what an interview could be.
The PEACE method, in which development Prof. Bull was heavily involved, emphasises Preparation and Planning, Engage and Explain, Account, Closure, and Evaluate – steps that encourage respect, rapport, and understanding between interviewer and interviewee. This approach challenges the traditional model, promoting instead an interaction that respects the dignity of all involved, including suspects who might otherwise face coercion.
This transformation didn’t happen in isolation. It was supported by broader changes in police training, which began to include cultural awareness and communication skills. Prof. Ray Bull’s evaluations and ongoing research have continuously demonstrated that empathetic interviewing not only upholds the dignity of the interviewee but also increases the effectiveness of police investigations.
Prof. Ray Bull’s influence extends beyond the UK, inspiring changes in policing and interviewing practices around the world. It is a reminder that the way forward in law enforcement and justice involves a commitment to ethical practices that respect human rights. His work continues to inspire a new generation of law enforcement professionals and academics to rethink how interviews should be conducted in the service of justice.
Listen to the conversation between Dr. Ivar Fahsing and Prof. Ray Bull to learn more about PEACE method and how it still radiates across the globe.
I used to believe that an innocent person wouldn’t confess to a crime they didn’t commit. I was wrong -Mark Fallon
After the success of season 1, our podcast “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” is back with new episodes hosted by Dr. Ivar Fahsing. In the upcoming episodes, the renowned scholar and practitioner focuses on picking the brains of some of the biggest legends in Investigative Interviewing and Police Interrogation to discuss the gap between the theory and the practice and moving away from the “common sense” interrogation to science-based interviewing.
Summary
Mark Fallon’s Advocacy for Ethical Interrogation: The blog highlights Mark Fallon’s extensive career with NCIS and his shift from using harsh interrogation methods to promoting humane, effective, and ethical interviewing techniques, detailed in his book “Unjustifiable Means.” His efforts aim to move US practices closer to European standards, which prioritise human rights and dignity.
Contrasts in Interrogation Practices: Fallon points out significant differences between the interrogation methods in the United States and Europe, particularly the slower transition in the U.S. from coercive techniques like Enhanced Interrogation Techniques (EITs) to more ethical practices, such as the ORBIT method, which aligns with scientific research and legal standards.
Impact of Ethical Standards on Justice: The post underscores the potential for profound changes within the justice system through adherence to ethical standards, highlighting how empirical and respectful interrogation methods not only boost law enforcement credibility but also ensure justice and human dignity are upheld.
We are kicking off with a conversation with Mark Fallon, a former NCIS investigator and advocate for ethical interrogation. His career spanned several decades and was marked by significant changes in US military and intelligence interrogation practices. His insights in the newest episode of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” reveal big differences between United States’ and European methods and underscore USA’s ongoing journey towards more humane law enforcement practices.
Throughout his career, Fallon has participated in major investigations, including the first World Trade Center attack and the USS Cole bombing. These experiences exposed him to the harsh realities and ineffectiveness of torture, driving his shift towards promoting humane and effective interrogation techniques. His book, “Unjustifiable Means,” explores the troubling aspects of US interrogation methods and his personal crusade against them, advocating for a shift towards rapport-based interviewing that aligns with human rights principles.
Unlike many European countries, where ethical standards and human rights are increasingly more embedded in law enforcement practices, the US has historically been slower to abandon coercive police interrogation methods, such as the Enhanced Interrogation Techniques (EITs). Fallon’s advocacy highlights the critical need for the US to align more closely with practices that prioritise human dignity and justice in interrogation methods (i.e. the ORBIT method).
Mr. Fallon stresses the need to align modern police interrogation methods with scientific research and strict legal standards to avoid past errors and boost law enforcement credibility. His experience highlights how ethical standards can drive significant change in the justice system, ensuring empirical methods that improve the quality of investigations and interrogation methods that respect justice and human dignity.
His story is not only about transitioning from traditional interrogation to ethical interviewing; it’s about a commitment to justice and the profound impact that one individual’s perseverance and principles can have on the global stage.
To understand the full extent of these issues and the potential for positive change, tune into Ivar Fashing’s discussion with Mark Fallon, where they explore how determination and ethics can bring significant improvements in even the most challenging environments.
End of year message from Børge Hansen, CEO Davidhorn
As we close another successful year at Davidhorn, join Sigrun Rodrigues, our Chief Marketing Officer, and Børge Hansen, our CEO, as they reflect on the remarkable achievements and milestones of 2024.
In this comprehensive year-end review, discover the groundbreaking innovations in our police interview recording technology. Learn how our cutting-edge solutions have enhanced investigative interviewing capabilities and supported criminal justice systems across multiple jurisdictions.
Explore how we’ve strategically expanded our global footprint through new partnerships with international law enforcement agencies, technology distributors, and justice sector organisations. Our collaboration network now spans multiple continents, bringing advanced recording solutions to police departments and investigative units worldwide.
This insightful conversation covers the year’s key highlights, including major product launches, technological breakthroughs, client success stories, and industry recognition. Sigrun and Børge discuss the challenges overcome, lessons learned, and the strategic decisions that shaped Davidhorn’s growth trajectory throughout 2024.
Tune in for this comprehensive review of our transformative year, and get an exclusive sneak peek into our exciting plans, upcoming innovations, and strategic initiatives for 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to understand how Davidhorn continues to lead the evolution of police interview recording technology.
