This immersive block of instruction offers investigative professionals—analysts, auditors, evaluators, fraud examiners, investigators, and inspectors—a rare, comprehensive examination of a homicide case from crime scene to conviction. Through case-study-based analysis of videotaped interrogations and post-conviction interviews, participants gain deep insight into the mechanics, psychology, and strategic choices that shaped the investigation’s outcome.

The course features firsthand perspectives from both the lead detective and the now-incarcerated suspect, allowing participants to critically evaluate interview dynamics, decision points, and the ethical boundaries of interrogation. Grounded in science-based interviewing methodology, the course challenges attendees to distinguish between effective and flawed techniques, assess the impact of cognitive and emotional factors, and understand how interview strategy influences prosecutorial success.

Science-Based Interviewing Integration

Participants will explore key principles from contemporary interviewing science, including:
• Strategic Use of Evidence (SUE): How timing and framing of known facts affect disclosure.
• Cognitive Interviewing Techniques: Enhancing memory retrieval and minimizing contamination.
• Rapport and Ethical Framing: Building cooperation without coercion.
• Time Responsibility Continuum: Applying strategic timing to interviewer responses, especially when managing interviewee questions or deflections.

Course Objectives

By the end of this block, participants will be able to:
• Analyze the full trajectory of a homicide investigation, from initial crime scene response to prosecutorial resolution.
• Evaluate interrogation techniques used in the case through the lens of science-based interviewing.
• Identify strategic decision points and their impact on case outcomes.
• Distinguish between ethical and coercive practices in high-stakes interviews.
• Apply science-based principles to improve their own interviewing strategies and case preparation.
• Reflect on the psychological and procedural dynamics revealed through post-conviction interviews with both the detective and the suspect.