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.
Want to build a cost-effective police force? Here are some research-based tactics
Policing today faces many challenges: growing administrative workloads, tighter budgets, and a changing crime landscape that crosses borders. Meeting these challenges while maintaining high standards of integrity requires strategic approaches. This blog explores practical tactics for cost savings and efficiency in policing, backed by recent research from Norway and the UK. By adopting new technologies and refining methods, police forces can not only boost productivity but also significantly reduce costs.
Summary
Mobile policing tools enable officers to conduct interviews and gather evidence directly in the field, saving time and reducing costs by minimising trips to the station.
Streamlined administrative tasks through automation and data integration can significantly cut down the time spent on transcribing interviews and managing paperwork, boosting productivity and resource allocation.
Ethical interviewing techniques, such as rapport-based approaches, lead to better-quality information, quicker case resolutions, and long-term cost savings, enhancing the overall efficiency of investigations.
The task force driving these best practices for dealing with victims of sexual crimes consists of just seven people: an officer from the police academy, two female prosecutors, three female investigators, and a press secretary who has previously worked with sex crime cases. They are the “guardians” of these standards across all of Schleswig-Holstein.
Conscious and sensitive treatment of victims is at the core of their mission, emphasising the importance of recording interviews as early as possible in the process.
Mobile policing = Cost savings
Traditional investigative processes often involve multiple trips to and from the police station, not only by officers but also by witnesses and suspects. This can result in scheduling challenges, potential contamination of witness memories, and increased operational costs.
Mobile recording solutions can significantly reduce these costs by allowing officers to conduct interviews and gather evidence directly at the scene. With mobile and portable devices, officers can stay in the field longer, reducing the need for witnesses or suspects to travel to police stations and minimising associated expenses.
High-quality evidence on the spot
Mobile and portable recording devices capture high-quality audio and video at the scene, preserving crucial details and speeding up the investigative process. Equipping officers with the right tools to complete documentation and collect evidence in the field leads to significant savings in time and resources. By cutting down on transportation and administrative tasks, forces can reallocate their time to focus on core policing activities.
Streamlining administrative workloads for police productivity improvement
Policing involves a substantial amount of administrative tasks that can take time away from core investigative work. From handling evidence and transcribing interviews to completing reports and managing case files, these routine duties can create a heavy burden on officers. In many instances, a significant portion of an officer’s time is spent on these tasks rather than being on the frontline, which can reduce overall police productivity and increase operational costs.
Read our Whitepaper on Police Productivity to learn more:
The time required to transcribe interviews manually or to manage evidence logistics—like transporting, cataloguing, and sharing data—can be considerable. A 2018 review from the Norwegian police highlighted that 11% of an officer’s working time is spent on tasks like report writing and completing paperwork for criminal cases. This not only extends the time taken to conclude cases but also creates bottlenecks in investigations, slowing down the entire process. The administrative load can also lead to backlogs, making it harder to provide timely service to the public.
Solution: Automation and data integration
Automation technologies and better data integration systems can address these challenges. Automated transcription services quickly convert audio recordings of interviews into written documents, saving hours that would otherwise be spent typing. For instance, instead of officers manually transcribing an hour-long interview, an automated system can do the job in minutes, with officers needing only to review the final text for accuracy.
Benefits: Enhanced police efficiency and reduced costs
By digitalising and automating these processes, police forces can save significant time and resources. Digital solutions can provide first-draft report generation, reducing the time officers need to spend on routine paperwork. Additionally, automated evidence management systems can track chain of custody with precision, ensuring that evidence remains secure and accessible while reducing the need for manual logging and transportation.
Furthermore, integrating advanced data management systems enables better synching between different platforms, allowing for easy data sharing across departments. For example, using secure, modern solutions, evidence collected in the field can be uploaded and accessed remotely, allowing for real-time updates and collaboration without the need for officers to return to the station.
The value of ethical interviewing techniques
Effective interviewing methods can bring significant cost savings. The latest research has shown that rapport-based approaches, such as the ORBIT framework, can be particularly valuable when interviewing suspects, witnesses and victims. While ORBIT is one successful example, other ethical investigative interviewing methods also focus on building trust and cooperation rather than using confrontational tactics.
Cost savings with rapport-based interviews
These techniques increase the likelihood of gathering high-quality, case-strengthening information, which can lead to faster case resolutions and reduce the need for lengthy trials. In particular, adaptive strategies—like showing empathy and allowing suspects to reflect on their actions—proved to increase the quality and quantity of gathered information and lead to better outcomes for investigations.
By adopting these approaches, police forces not only improve the effectiveness of their interviews but also achieve long-term cost savings, enhancing the overall efficiency of their investigations.
Numerical evidence: The impact of rapport-based approaches
Research highlights the significant advantages of rapport-based interviewing over more coersive techniques. In studies focusing on cases like child sexual abuse (CSA), interviews conducted using the ORBIT framework gathered up to 35% more case-strengthening information compared to traditional methods. This information can include crucial details such as passwords, locations of devices, and insights into additional suspects or victims. Ethical interviewing methodologies not only contribute to better investigative outcomes but also represent a strategic opportunity for police forces to achieve significant cost savings.
Conclusion
The path to a more cost-effective police force involves leveraging new technologies, embracing innovative interviewing techniques, and automating administrative tasks. By doing so, law enforcement agencies can maximise their resources, ensure data integrity, and improve their response to an ever-changing crime landscape. With the right tools and methodologies, police forces can continue to serve their communities effectively while staying mindful of their budgets.
As we wrap up the first season of our Investigative Interviewing podcast “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”, it’s a great moment to reflect on the insights shared by our guests around investigative interviewing. Our podcast aimed to look into the complexities of investigative interviewing and the broader implications for law enforcement practices globally. Through engaging conversations, we explored themes of ethical interviewing, human rights, and the transformative power of technology in policing.
Exploring investigative interviewing techniques
One of the recurring themes this season was the shift towards ethical interviewing techniques. Dr. Ivar Fahsing and Dr. Asbjørn Rachlew, pioneers in this field from Norway, kicked off our series by discussing the evolution of investigative interviewing in their country. They highlighted the importance of non-coercive methods and the critical role these techniques play in ensuring justice and avoiding miscarriages of justice.
Fanny Aboagye
Human rights at the forefront
In our conversation with Prof. Juan Méndez, a renowned human rights advocate and former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, we explored the significance of the Méndez Principles. These guidelines underscore the prohibition of torture and coercion, advocating for interviewing methods that respect the dignity and rights of all individuals. Prof. Méndez’s insights shed light on the global impact of these principles and the necessity of aligning police work with international human rights standards.
Global perspectives on Investigative Interviewing
Our episodes with Fanny Aboagye, Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Police Force, and Gisle Kvanvig offered valuable perspectives on the international adoption of ethical interviewing practices. Aboagye discussed the launch of the UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing and its implications for policing in Africa. She emphasised the importance of management support and training in implementing these changes and highlighted the role of gender in non-confrontational interviewing styles.
Gisle Kvanvig brought a unique viewpoint on the practical challenges and successes in adopting new interviewing methods and provided a realistic look at the global landscape of policing reforms.
Psychological insights and communication
Emily Alison, specialists in communication and ethical interviewing and Becky Milne – Professor of Forensic Psychology, shared their expertise on the psychological aspects of interviewing. Their focus on building rapport and understanding the psychological dynamics at play during interviews was particularly enlightening. Emily Alison insights emphasised the need for empathy and effective communication in gathering reliable information. Prof. Becky Milne also highlighted the importance of context and detailed questioning to elicit more accurate responses from interviewees.
Technological integration in policing
Throughout the season, a key highlight was the integration of technology in modern policing. The discussions underscored how advancements in recording technology, such as digital and mobile solutions, are revolutionising evidence collection. These innovations not only enhance the accuracy and reliability of evidence but also streamline processes, making law enforcement more efficient and cost-effective.
Looking Ahead
As we conclude the first season of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” we are inspired by the commitment of our guests to advance ethical, effective, and humane policing practices. Their collective insights provide a roadmap for law enforcement agencies worldwide to adopt more just and transparent methods.
We look forward to continuing this conversation in future seasons, exploring new developments and sharing more success stories from the field. Stay tuned for more discussions as we strive to transform investigative practices for the better.
In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of hosting Fanny Aboagye, the Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Police Force, who is at the forefront of pioneering change in law enforcement in Africa. Amidst the historical corridors of the UN in New York, Fanny Aboagye shared with Dr. Ivar Fahsing, her invaluable perspectives on why the new UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing is a cornerstone for modern policing.
The need for change in policing techniques
Fanny’s career, marked by extensive peacekeeping missions and leadership roles, brings a rich understanding of the complexities and challenges in police reform. Her insights into the transition from traditional coercive interrogation methods to techniques that respect human rights are not just timely but necessary. As policing faces global scrutiny, the manual Fanny Aboagye helps promote is designed to ensure that interviews yield accurate and reliable information through ethical means.
Fanny Aboagye
Training for a new era
One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Fanny’s emphasis on training and cultural change within police forces. She highlighted how Ghana is embracing these new methods as part of its vision to achieve world-class policing standards. This involves a deep-rooted shift in training curricula and operational practices to foster a culture that upholds dignity and human rights at every level.
The shift towards female leadership
The inclusion and ascension of women in the police force are not just about achieving gender parity but also about enhancing the effectiveness and ethical standards of policing. In Ghana, the proportion of women in the police force has seen a significant rise, with about 27% of officers being women, and even more heartening is the 15-17% representation in senior roles. This marked increase in female presence across all levels, particularly in operational and field roles, demonstrates a transformative shift in the traditionally male-dominated sphere of policing.
Fanny Aboagye’s narrative shines a light on the profound changes happening within the Ghanaian police force. Previously, senior female officers were primarily stationed at headquarters, somewhat removed from frontline duties. However, recent policies have propelled them into more active roles in the field, challenging and reshaping the operational dynamics of policing. This strategic inclusion allows women to prove their mettle alongside their male counterparts, breaking down long-standing stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive environment.
This evolution in the workforce is crucial for several reasons. First, it promotes a more balanced approach to policing, especially in situations where sensitivity and empathic communication are required. Research and experiences from various countries, including Norway, suggest that women often excel in roles that require non-confrontational and communicative approaches, skills that are vital in investigative interviewing. These skills not only lead to better outcomes in individual cases but also help in transforming the “macho” image of policing into one that is more inclusive and just.
Broadening the impact
Fanny Aboagye also pointed out the broader implications of these changes, noting the importance of such reforms in other African countries and beyond. Her work with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre exemplifies how shared knowledge and collaborative training efforts can elevate policing standards across regions.
The global implications of ethical interviewing
This episode not only sheds light on the transformative efforts in policing but also reinforces the belief that ethical interviewing is fundamental to justice and community trust. As law enforcement agencies worldwide navigate these changes, leaders like Fanny Aboagye are instrumental in guiding them towards practices that respect human rights and enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how ethical interviewing is reshaping the landscape of international law enforcement, driven by dedicated professionals committed to reform and integrity.
Gisle’s journey through various international and non-governmental organisations has equipped him with unique insights into the human rights landscape, culminating in his current focus on improving police practices through investigative interviewing.
Ethical foundations and practical applications
Gisle detailed the creation of the UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigations, a groundbreaking tool aimed at harmonising global standards in law enforcement. This manual isn’t just a set of guidelines; it’s a transformative document designed to ensure fair, effective, and humane treatment within the criminal justice system, aligning perfectly with Sustainable Development Goal #16 which promotes just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
Gisle Kvanvig
The importance of methodology and ethical interviewing in justice
One of the key takeaways from this discussion was the critical role of methodology in maintaining the presumption of innocence. Gisle emphasised how traditional interrogation techniques often compromise this fundamental principle, while structured interviews support it. This approach not only helps in aligning police work with international human rights standards but also enhances the effectiveness of the judicial process by preventing miscarriages of justice.
Impacting global law enforcement
Gisle also shared how the Norwegian Centre for Human Rights is influencing law enforcement practices worldwide. From Vietnam to Brazil, the adoption of these new interviewing techniques is fostering a more ethical approach to policing. The success stories Gisle recounted illustrate a significant shift in how officers perceive their roles and responsibilities, moving away from coercion towards a more evidence-based, respectful interaction with suspects.
Future directions
Looking ahead, Gisle highlighted the ongoing need to adapt and refine these methods to address various global challenges, including corruption, violent crimes, and war crimes. The adaptability of investigative interviewing makes it a powerful tool not only for developed countries but also for developing nations struggling with diverse crime dynamics.
Gisle Kvanvig provided insights into how ethical investigative interviewing is shaping the future of law enforcement globally. It’s clear that through continued education, adaptation, and international cooperation, we can achieve a more just and humane world.
This week on our podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Emily Alison, a renowned psychologist and the co-creator of the Orbit model (Observing Rapport-Based Interpersonal Techniques). Emily Alison and Lawrence Alison, have revolutionised the field of investigative interviewing with a practical, science-based method that prioritises ethical considerations and effective communication.
Who are Emily Alison and Lawrence Alison?
Emily Alison is a respected psychologist at the University of Liverpool, specialising in interrogation and interviewing practices. Together with Lawrence Alison, who has a background in critical incident decision-making, they developed the Orbit model – a comprehensive approach that enhances rapport and communication in interviews. Through working closely with the High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group (HIG) they gathered invaluable insights into the effect of real-world interviews. By studying more than 2000 hours of interviews with terrorist suspects and other sensitive subjects they analysed causalities between the approach of the investigator and the information and evidence gathered from these interviews, leading to the creation of the Orbit model.
Emily Alison
The core of Orbit
The Orbit model stands out for its focus on building rapport and understanding instinctive communication patterns. It is derived from extensive real-world applications and is designed to improve not only police interviews but also interactions in various high-stakes environments. The model is structured around the foundational principles of human psychology and social communication, incorporating aspects from motivational interviewing and humanistic theories.
Impact of the Orbit Model
Emily’s discussion on our podcast highlights the transformational impact of the Orbit model in various circumstances, from law enforcement to personal relationships. Her approach underscores the importance of understanding and managing interpersonal dynamics in interviews, which can lead to more effective and truthful information gathering.
Why Davidhorn is involved
At Davidhorn, investigative interviewing forms the core of what we do. Recording interviews and ensuring they are conducted ethically aligns closely with the principles discussed by Emily Alison. Her insights into rapport-based interviewing techniques provide invaluable knowledge that helps in advancing our mission to promote ethical interviewing practices.
Conclusion
This episode with Emily Alison offers insights into the art and science of investigative interviewing. Her expertise in building connections through empathy and understanding offers a significant shift to traditional interrogation methods, aligning perfectly with Davidhorn’s commitment to ethical and effective interviewing techniques.
Méndez, a former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, has been instrumental in shaping guidelines that have significantly altered the landscape of police interrogation and interviewing across the globe.
Who is Juan Méndez?
Prof. Juan Méndez’s journey as a human rights advocate is both profound and inspiring. Born and raised in Argentina, Méndez witnessed firsthand the atrocities committed under military dictatorship, where torture was rampant. His personal experiences and legal background propelled him into a lifelong quest against torture, eventually leading him to serve as a global advocate and an influential figure in the United Nations.
His work culminated in the development of the Méndez Principles; a set of guidelines designed to ensure that police interviewing techniques comply with international human rights standards. These principles emphasise the prohibition of torture and psychological coercion, advocating for methods that respect the dignity and rights of all individuals.
Fahsing and Méndez in New York
The impact of the Méndez Principles
During the podcast, Méndez discusses the significant impact these principles have had on global policing standards. The conversation reveals how traditional, coercive interrogation tactics not only fail to comply with ethical norms but are also ineffective and can lead to false confessions and miscarriages of justice. The Méndez principles offer a framework that helps police forces shift towards more humane and effective practices.
This episode is crucial for understanding the intersection of law enforcement and human rights. It highlights the necessity of ethical standards in policing, not just for the sake of compliance but because humane practices lead to more effective law enforcement. For Davidhorn, a company working with recording police interviews, this discussion underscores the importance of transparency and ethics in every interaction within the criminal justice system.
The takeaway
“Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” with Juan Méndez is more than just a podcast episode; it’s a call to action for reforming interrogation practices worldwide and turning them into investigative interviewing. It serves as a reminder that change is possible when we commit to upholding the dignity and rights of all individuals in the pursuit of justice.
Whether you are a legal professional, law enforcement officer, a student of human rights, or simply a concerned citizen, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all contribute to a more just and ethical world.
The Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigation has been launched
In spring 2024, “The Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigation” was published, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of global justice systems.
Now The UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing has been launched during the UN Chiefs of Police Summit 2024. Juan Méndez, Professor of Human Rights Law, former UN’s Special Rapporteur on torture shared hist thoughts about the publication while interviewed for Davidhorn’s podcast “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”:
Launch of 2024 Manual: “The Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigation,” published in spring 2024 by the UN and related organisations, introduces a transformative, non-coercive approach to criminal investigations worldwide.
Global standard for ethical interviewing: The manual sets a new global standard, promoting human rights-respecting techniques that enhance the effectiveness of investigations while preventing ill-treatment and torture.
Davidhorn’s commitment: Davidhorn supports the implementation of this manual with advanced recording and interview management technologies, helping law enforcement agencies adhere to ethical interviewing standards globally.
“We needed a set of guidelines, and this set is based on 40 years of experience from researchers who have studied how police work can comply with human rights standards, guarantee all the safeguards that suspects should have in a democratic police environment, and at the same time provide an affirmative vehicle for the police to do their work more effectively than relying on coercion, which has been proven to be counterproductive.”
Setting a new global standard for police interviewing techniques
The manual establishes a comprehensive framework for non-coercive interviewing techniques that respect human rights and uphold the principles of justice. Its publication is particularly crucial for parts of the world where coercive interrogation practices have still been the norm. By promoting ethical interviewing standards, the manual not only aims to enhance the effectiveness of criminal investigations but also ensures that these practices are grounded in respect for human dignity and the avoidance of any form of ill-treatment or torture.
Facilitating a mindset shift
The introduction of this manual represents a paradigm shift in how investigative interviews are conducted globally. It moves away from traditional, often coercive interrogation tactics towards a method that emphasises rapport-building, empathy, and psychological understanding. This approach helps to receive more accurate and reliable information, crucial for the fairness and reliability of subsequent criminal proceedings.
Impact across diverse legal systems
The significance of the manual extends across various legal systems, offering a universal guideline that can be adapted to local contexts while maintaining international human rights standards. Countries are encouraged to integrate these practices into their national training programs for law enforcement, ensuring that the principles of ethical police interviewing become ingrained within the fabric of global justice processes.
Davidhorn’s role in supporting global justice
At Davidhorn, we are committed to supporting the implementation of this groundbreaking manual through our advanced recording and interview management technologies. Our solutions are designed to complement the ethical interviewing techniques advocated in the manual, providing law enforcement agencies with the tools they need to adhere to these standards.
Conclusion: a call to ethical justice practices
We invite justice systems worldwide to adopt this manual’s guidelines and join us in transforming the landscape of investigative interviewing. Together, we can ensure a future where justice is not only served but upheld with the highest standards of ethics and integrity.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt – a new podcast from Davidhorn
Welcome to “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” a podcast series that welcomes you into the world of Investigative Interviewing – a non-coercive method for questioning victims, witnesses and suspects of crimes
Hosted by Børge Hansen, CEO of Davidhorn, this podcast is more than just a show; it’s a journey into the core of justice and gathering facts through unbiased dialogue.
Why have we decided to do this? Investigative Interviewing is at the core of Davidhorn’s mission. We are a tech company providing innovative recording and productivity tools for law enforcement to help societies transition from coercive interrogation to investigative interviewing. Our goal is to reduce false convictions, safeguard vulnerable individuals and children involved in crime, and ensure equal access to justice for all.
Only knowledge, education and conversation can change the status quo.
Episode one: The Foundational Fathers of Investigative Interviewing in Norway
In our opening episode, we explore the subject in-depth with Dr. Ivar A. Fahsing and Dr. Asbjørn Rachlew, the minds behind Norway’s innovative approach to investigative interviewing. Their stories and insights reveal the extensive effort and strategic thinking required to transform how interviews are conducted in law enforcement, ensuring fairness and preventing wrongful convictions. These pioneers of the method in Norway discuss the importance of sharing their techniques worldwide, reflecting a commitment to fostering peaceful, just, and strong societies under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #16.
Looking ahead: what’s to come in season one
Looking forward, the first season of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” promises to build a strong foundation by touching on the history of investigative interviewing and how it affects different parts of society. From child and vulnerable witness interviewing with prof. Becky Milne, research on terrorist suspects with Emily Alison and how the techniques of investigative interviewing are being brought out in the world to help build trust towards police globally by the UN, with Gisle Kvanvig from the Norwegian Center for Human Rights. Through conversations with these and other respected guests, we aim to cover everything from the subtleties of building rapport in interviews to the use of technology in modern policing.
First things first?
Why do we focus on foundations before practice? Simply put; to master the art of investigative interviewing, one must first understand its origins and how it has evolved. This approach ensures that as we explore practical applications in future episodes, our listeners have a solid framework to appreciate the depth and impact of these methods.
Join us in the conversation
Join us at “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” as we explore how effective communication can lead to justice and trust within communities, highlighting the transformative power of well-conducted interviews. Tune in, ask questions, and discover how the right words at the right time can indeed change the world.
Catch our latest episodes on all major podcast platforms and join the conversation about creating a better society through the art of interviewing.
The Thomas Quick Case: a lesson on the importance of ethical investigative interviewing
The Thomas Quick case underscores the vital importance of ethical standards in investigative interviewing and the necessity for reliable police recording technology.
This blog examines Quick’s notorious wrongful convictions due to coerced confessions to numerous murders he never committed. Through this cautionary tale, we delve into the consequences of improper police interviewing methods and the significant role that interview recording could play in preventing such miscarriages of justice. Highlighting the shifts needed in legal practices, the blog advocates for enhanced recording methods to uphold the integrity of investigations and protect vulnerable individuals from undue influence during interviews.
Summary
Case overview: The Thomas Quick case highlights the severe consequences of unethical investigative interviewing and the importance of reliable police recording technology, with Quick falsely confessing to numerous murders due to coercive interview techniques.
Investigative errors: Key errors included leading questions, lack of solid evidence, and no reliable recording equipment, resulting in wrongful convictions. The use of suggestive interview methods and Quick’s vulnerability due to heavy medication exacerbated these issues.
Advocacy for change: The blog advocates for the integration of ethical interviewing practices and reliable recording technology, as championed by Davidhorn, to prevent miscarriages of justice and ensure transparent and fair investigations.
The Thomas Quick saga: a cautionary tale
The story of Thomas Quick, is a chilling reminder of the critical role of ethical practices in investigative interviewing. Quick, who confessed to numerous murders he did not commit, became a central figure in a series of wrongful convictions. This case stands as a stark example of the consequences of flawed police interview techniques.
The enigmatic case of Thomas Quick
Thomas Quick, a Swedish man with the real name of Sture Bergwall, became infamously known for confessing to more than 30 unsolved murders across Scandinavia in the 1990s. He was convicted of eight of them – six in Sweden and two in Norway. For years he was deemed Scandinavia’s most dangerous serial killer, but then all of the sudden the matter took a dramatic turn when Quick retracted all his confessions, leading to a re-examination of the evidence and eventually, the overturning of his convictions. This case is a bewildering journey through a maze of false confessions and questionable legal proceedings.
Investigative missteps unveiled
Key errors in Quick’s interviews were marked by the use of leading questions and the acceptance of questionable confessions without solid evidence. These flawed practices, exacerbated by the lack of reliable police interview recording equipment, resulted in miscarriages of justice. Quick’s admissions, largely shaped by suggestive and coercive interview techniques, were accepted without the scrutiny that recording could have offered.
Frequently, Quick was under the influence of prescription drugs, rendering him a vulnerable interviewee. From today’s perspective, it is clear that he should have been interviewed in a very different way. First, the police should have used investigative interviewing instead of suggestible interview methods, next all interviews should have been recorded, and finally, much more caution should have been given to the fact that he was under heavy medication during interviews. If fact, getting more drugs might have been his main motivation to keep telling the lies.
The role of recording interviews in preventing false confessions
Had Davidhorn’s Investigative Interviewing recording systems been in place, the outcome of the Thomas Quick case might have been drastically different. Reliable and transparent recording of Quick’s interviews and fair interview technique while interviewing a suspect
could have provided an objective account, helping to identify inconsistencies and prevent the acceptance of coerced or fabricated confessions. Interview recording technology ensures that every detail of the interview is captured, preserving the integrity of both the process and the evidence.
Davidhorn’s commitment to ethical interviewing practices
At Davidhorn, we recognize the gravity of cases like Thomas Quick’s and the indispensable role of ethical interviewing and recording technology. Our solutions provide an objective, tamper-proof record of interviews, fostering a transparent and fair investigative process. We believe that the integration of recording technology in investigative interviewing can prevent similar tragedies and ensure justice is served through accurate and ethical practices.
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