Interview Tips from Homicide Detective Jason White
Introduction: I have had the privilege of working with Jason White for years (even before he was famous as the popular homicide detective on A&E’s The First 48). Jason’s skill as an investigator was something I observed and respected from the first time we met. Jason’s skill as an interviewer is not recognized by just me – he is asked to teach all over the nation on the topic of police interviews – Jason was a featured speaker at the Association of Oklahoma Narcotic Enforcers webinar last year and he drew approximately 1,400 attendees. I spoke with Jason who was kind enough to share his top tips for police interviews.
The Approach: Before the officer interviews the suspect or witness, it is helpful to get as much information as possible (criminal history, demographics, if he or she has talked in the past and to what officers, etc). With that information, it is important not jump into the questions too quickly – the officer needs to build rapport as much as possible. And the officer should focus on being relaxed – in fact, much of how the officer behaves can impact the demeanor of the interviewee.
The Conversation: Here is the meat and potatoes. Jason and I talked for nearly an hour to prepare for this article, and the overwhelming majority of our talk related to the manner of the conversation with the suspect/witness. So, here are Jason’s suggestions:
-Just act normal,
-Be courteous,
-Speak to them like you are speaking to a friend (one that you like talking to),
-Treat the suspects “right,” and with respect,
-Talk to them like a real person, not in cop talk, and on their level.
If this seems simple, maybe that’s because it is. Humans have been talking to one another for tens of thousands of years - as Jason told me, “We’re not building a rocket.”
Improving: The first thing Jason said he would suggest to officers is … practice. Whether it is a drug investigation, stolen car, or simply speaking to the passengers on a normal traffic stop. Every opportunity you get to talk with people, the better you get at talking with people – and that’s the most important part of gathering information. Sure, there are techniques, approaches, and game plans; but those come with experience. And an officer can get that experience by practice, practice, practice – at every opportunity.
Connecting with Jason: I have seen Jason’s presentation on interviews and interrogation – it is outstanding. If you would like to contact Jason about presenting on interviews or other topics, you can email him at jrwhite@cityoftulsa.org , his Linkedin profile (Jason White – Homicide Detective)., or on Twitter @DetJasonWhite. And you can also watch Jason at work on this season of A&E’s The First 48.
