Dynamic aspects of investigative interviewing high-status fraud suspects

Abstract

High-status financial fraudsters can inflict significant financial and social damage on society. This study aims to provide insight into the dynamics during investigative interviews with such suspects. To this end, 409 half-hour episodes of audio-recorded investigative interviews with 28 high-status suspects were analysed. Officers’ interview techniques are classified in four categories (rapport building; disclosure of potential evidence; adopting a challenging posture; authoritative signalling). Suspects' statements are classified into three categories (general disclosure; providing alternative explanations; uncertain statement behaviour). The dynamic relations between interviewers’ questions and suspects’ statements are studied, both within and across half-hour episodes.