Significant Statements and Silences

Question 1

What is a Significant Statement?

Answer 1

A Significant Statement is one which appears capable of being used in evidence against the suspect

a) In particular a direct admission of guilt, or
b) Failure or refusal to answer a question, or
c) To answer it satisfactory

Question 2

What is a Significant Silence?

Answer 2

A Significant Silence is a silence which might give rise to inferences being drawn

Question 3

What can a Significant Statement arise?

Answer 3

A Significant Statement may arise anytime before or after caution

Question 4

When can a Significant Silence arise?

Answer 4

A significant silence can only arise after caution

Question 5

When should a Significant Statement or Silence be put to the accused?

Answer 5

Any significant statement or silence which occurred is out to the accused first in the interview

Question 6

What is a Relevant Comment?

Answer 6

A relevant comment is an unsolicited comment by the suspect

Question 7

When can a relevant comment arise?

Answer 7

Anytime before interview!

Question 8

How should a Significant Statement/Silence or Relevant Comment be recorded?

Answer 8

All should be recorded in the PNB and should be timed and signed and where practicable the suspect should be asked read and sign it stating its accuracy