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.
The historical backdrop
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.
