In order to collect accurate interview evidence, you need to conduct the interview in an appropriate environment, with modern and reliable recording equipment. Unfortunately, too many agencies are missing the mark and have overlooked some of the key steps for structuring their onsite interview room appropriately. Reviewing this simplified version of what the process should entail can help you get back on track.
The Modern Interrogation Room Setup: Delivering Accurate Evidence with a Streamlined Solution
With an experienced solutions provider, following the steps for a modern interrogation room setup doesn’t need to be complicated. A seamless integration of the recording equipment into the room design can help you deliver court-admissible evidence every time.
Step 1: Verify your interrogation room setup options
The first step is to conduct a space needs analysis. Every facility is different, and agencies need to confirm that the room is sized appropriately, not only for their furniture and camera views, but also in accordance with any state regulations.
Your room will need to include a table and two chairs. Some agencies may also choose to place pictures or paintings on the walls to help replicate a professional space that feels familiar, such as a waiting room. It’s always best to have an interrogation room setup that is neutral and professional—not intimidating.
Step 2: Consider both discreet and overt camera options
Agencies should, at minimum, have two cameras installed. In addition, you need to ensure that your interrogation room setup is using HD cameras, preferably 1920 x 1080 Full HD. Consulting with your recording solutions provider can help you find the right equipment for your needs, whether that’s an overt camera setup option or a combination of overt and covert.
After that, you’ll need to ensure that your room’s furniture is arranged correctly. Even the best cameras would be useless if they aren’t able to accurately record every detail of your interview subject’s facial expressions and body language. Again, working with an experienced solutions provider can help confirm that your room’s design will be successful.
Step 3: Upgrade to omnidirectional microphones
Many agencies have struggled with poor audio quality for the interview evidence recordings over the years. Upgrading your interrogation room setup to utilize omni-directional microphones can help solve this problem for good. In some instances, an agency may only need one microphone for their space to have a clear recording.
Step 4: Pay attention to the recording system’s ease-of-use
The right recording solution will feel intuitive. It should also be specifically-designed for law enforcement, and custom-built based on feedback from actual detectives and other public safety professionals.
One of the most important features to check before moving forward with your new recording solution is how the system actually starts and stops its recording process. How many tasks will you have to run through just to get the equipment running? And after that, how easy will it be for employees to review that evidence, make annotations, create court-requested redactions, and share all of the content with the approved parties?
At iRecord, we’ve considered this entire process from start to finish; and we’re able to provide solutions that are truly industry-specific because we collaborate with real-life detectives and clients along the way.
Whether you’re exploring an interrogation room setup for a new facility, or you’re looking to modernize your existing recording system, we can help! We partner with agencies across the country, no matter what stage you’re currently working in. Our team is always happy to connect and consult with clients on their space needs analysis, hardware options, DEMS and more. Send us a message to start the conversation!