Time sensitive interviews with suspects, witnesses, and informants: challenges and opportunities

Obtaining information quickly is crucial in many law enforcement, security, and military operations, particularly in time-sensitive scenarios such as terrorist attacks, hostage situations, or dynamic operational contexts. This article examines the challenges inherent in the task of eliciting time-sensitive information, focusing on the difficulties faced by both interviewers and interviewees in high-pressure or time-limited situations. We review current legislative provisions for urgent interviews and identify a significant gap in empirical research on effective methodologies for information gathering in such scenarios. Here we argue for the adoption of rapport-based approaches, supported by empirical evidence, to improve the efficacy of time-sensitive elicitation. In particular, we examine the adaptability of the ORBIT model of communication and the recently developed rapport-based Time-Critical Questioning (TCQ) protocol for this context. Research to date indicates that rapport-based strategies, that emphasize clear and adaptive communication, foster focus and cooperation and increase the yield of actionable intelligence in time-sensitive situations. Finally, we outline a roadmap for future research and practice, encouraging collaborative efforts to develop evidence-based practice and training that address the unique challenges of time-sensitive interviews and enhance operational outcomes.