Modern Investigative Interviewing

Modern Investigative Interviewing
By Moises “Mo” Vallejo, Retired Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC), Office of Professional Responsibility, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Mo has written a blog series for investigators that outlines practical, field-tested approaches to conducting interviews that are structured, defensible, and aligned with prosecutorial needs—using the StarWitness tools that ensure accurate and reliable recording.
We hope you will join us as we learn about modern investigative interviewing with Mo!

Preparation: The Work Before the Interview
Effective investigative interviews are built long before the first question is asked. Preparation determines not only the quality of the information obtained, but also whether that information stands up in court.
Investigators should also be mindful of legal considerations—such as custodial status and required advisements—that may impact how and where an interview is conducted.
Preparation should also account for how the interview will be documented, ensuring information is captured in a manner that supports investigative and prosecutorial needs.
Preparation not only shapes the direction of the interview but also influences how information is obtained, evaluated, and ultimately used in investigative and legal proceedings.
Case Review and Evidence Analysis
Start with a thorough review of the case file. Do not rely on memory or secondhand summaries—read the material yourself. A firsthand understanding of the evidence allows you to identify gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities that should shape your interview approach.
Define the Objective
Every interview must have a clearly defined purpose. Determine exactly what you need to obtain: timeline clarification, corroboration, intent, or specific admissions. If the subject is a suspect, identify the precise elements of the offense that must be established. In complex cases involving multiple subjects or potential charges, clarity at this stage is essential to avoid unfocused or ineffective questioning.
Develop an Interview Strategy
Your approach should be tailored to the individual you are interviewing—whether a witness, subject, or confidential informant. Consider demeanor, background, and potential motivations. A deliberate strategy improves your ability to guide the conversation, manage resistance, and obtain reliable information.
Prepare Key Questions
Document your key questions in advance. Coordinate with the district attorney or prosecutor to ensure your line of questioning aligns with the elements required for charging and prosecution. For suspect interviews, focus on securing statements that address specific acts and intent. Preparation in this phase reduces the risk of missed opportunities during the interview.
The Interview Environment
The setting plays a critical role in the success of an interview. Controlled environments, such as a dedicated interview room equipped with a system like StarWitness Interviewer, provide consistent audio and video quality and support evidentiary integrity.
However, interviews do not always occur in controlled settings. When circumstances require flexibility—such as at a residence, workplace, or hospital—a portable solution like the StarWitness Field Interviewer enables investigators to capture court-ready recordings without compromising quality or reliability.
Ensure Equipment Readiness
Technical failures can undermine even the most well-prepared interview. Before starting, verify that all equipment is fully operational:

• Confirm battery levels and power sources
• Test audio and video quality
• Check storage capacity and system connectivity
• Ensure recordings can be properly saved and accessed

A brief equipment check can prevent the loss of critical evidence and protect the integrity of the interview.

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