An analysis of interview strategies in high-stakes crime investigations in the UK: are they fit for purpose?

Providing strategic advice to the Senior Investigating Officer is a key element of the role of the Interview Manager in high stakes crime investigations. However, no actual evaluation of such strategies has been undertaken. This exploratory study examined 15 interview strategies from three UK police forces in connection with high stakes crime investigations. Overall, the analysis illustrated that the strategies were poorly designed, vague and lacked a cohesive structure. The study has provided an invaluable first insight into strategy design and implementation in the investigative interviewing arena. More research is required to focus on design and implementation of interview strategies.