Application of the cognitive interview techniques as part of investigations

The chapter opens by describing the research evaluations of police witness interviewing that identifi ed inherent problems with the natural inter- view techniques of both American and British police offi cers, and how these tech- niques detrimentally affected the information provided by witnesses. The chapter then summarises the components of both the original CI and the ECI models that were developed to counteract these defi ciencies, before discussing the research that has been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the techniques. In particular, the discussion focuses on the applied research that has been conducted, as this has par- ticular relevance to the application of the techniques in the fi eld. The chapter then switches focus to describe the structured approach to the management of witness interviewing within the context of a major crime investigation in England and Wales. The chapter concludes by offering some practical advice for consultants to consider when becoming involved in police investigations.