Witness Management Flashcards
Examples of ways you could ID witnesses:
- CCTV
- Media release
- Area canvas
- Interviews
- Road Check Points
Due to resources, the initial enquiries might be confined to what areas?
- Murder scene
- Where victim was last seen alive
- Body dump site
- Place where initial contact with suspect took place
What evidence could be passed from suspect to witness?
- DNA
- Fingerprints
- Clothes
- Fibres
- Bodily fluids
What are the benefits to a prompt, preliminary interview with a witness?
- Early ID or arrest
- Recovery of evidence
- Prevention of disposal
- Prevention of further offending
A prelim interview should be…
- Conducted in accordance with Police Manual Chapter (investigative interviewing witnesses)
- Limited to using TEDS
- Framed to elicit a brief account of the events witnessed
What different ways can a witness give evidence under Section 105:
- Behind a screen
- Outside of courtroom
- Video recording
What factors should be considered when deciding who to appoint as an interviewer?
- Level of training
- Experience of the officer
- Suitability of the officer
What does the witness interview plan normally cover?
- Time and location of interview
- Amount of information to be disclosed
- Objectives
- Supporting the interview
- Structure
What are the different types of witnesses?
- Witnesses who decline to be interviewed
- Reluctant/uncooperative
- Witnesses requiring protection
- Alibi witnesses
- Children and Young persons
- Police witnesses
What are the principles guiding the management of witnesses?
Manner of which witnesses are treated will significantly affect how they co-operate.
Investigators must understand the actions expected of them.
What should an initial witness assessment cover?
- Whether witness requires special consideration
- Availability of witness
- The optimum approach
Police responsibilities with witnesses:
- Ensuring court attendance
- Court proceedings
- Ensure they are fully briefed, statements signed etc
Witness control - ensure witnesses do not…
- Have contact with jurors
- Discuss case in public
- Discuss case with other witnesses
