The landscape of criminal justice is constantly evolving. New police training, research, and interrogation policies all help to ensure that agencies continue to deliver the highest level of service to our communities. With this, ongoing education is critical.
Initial training provides a foundation. Yet that can’t eliminate the fact that the skills we learn in training can start to decline. Often this happens after a relatively short period of time. But with new technology, agencies can better ensure that every officer is equipped with the necessary knowledge and expertise. A new tool specifically designed to help with police interrogation training is helping agencies conduct interviews even more effectively.
Ongoing Education and the Forensic Interview Trace (FIT) App
In order to remain up-to-date on the latest best practices for policing, agencies across the country are taking their rigorous training even further—particularly when it comes to conducting interrogations.
One piece of technology that’s making this process even easier is the Forensic Interview Trace (FIT) app. The software is specifically designed to assist officers who are looking to improve their interrogation techniques. It was initially developed by professors from Northumbria University and the University of London. So far, it has been trialed by multiple police agencies across the UK. Once the app is tested more widely, it will likely be available for public safety professionals around the world.
The goal of the FIT software is to give agencies the ability to continuously review their interrogations and refine their process. As Dr. Farrugia explains, reflection is a great way to learn. She regularly works with vulnerable victims and has years of experience advising individuals on communication strategies and best interview techniques.
Understanding forensic psychology has proven to be a major asset for skilled interviewers. So when detectives have the opportunity to evaluate their own past interviews, as well as those from others, they can ultimately increase the efficiency of every investigation.
Benefits of Using Real-World Scenarios for Collaboration
Agencies that want to enhance the quality of their evidence and level of professionalism understand that police training never stops. We always have something new to learn, and that commitment to improve is what keeps our justice system strong. By investing in new tools and ongoing education, agencies help everyone maintain the highest standards of professionalism.
What’s more, ongoing education serves as a platform for officers to engage in discussions and case studies with their peers. New police technology, such as the FIT app, make it easier than ever to share experiences and learn from real-world scenarios.
Having accurate audio video recordings isn’t just about that single piece of evidence for a case. It can also be utilized for training, allowing us to analyze the technician’s communication style, body language, tone of voice, and overall demeanor to evaluate their effectiveness in establishing a positive rapport with the interview subject.
When agencies can work together, officers are in a better position to identify their strengths and exchange best practices. Along the way, a collaborative learning environment also promotes critical thinking and ethical decision-making. Really, the benefits are endless.
The future of the Forensic Interview Trace App and other interoperability solutions will help provide valuable insights for officers who are ready to advance their knowledge of psychological principles, non-verbal cues, and cognitive biases that may impact the dynamics of an interrogation. It will be neat to see what happens next with FIT in the industry!