COGNITIVE INTERVIEWS! Eyewitnesses and Victims

Unlock the full story — every time. Cognitive Interview (CI) techniques are a game-changer for law enforcement professionals. While most officers and investigators are well-trained in suspect interrogations, few receive formal instruction in how to effectively interview victims and witnesses — the individuals who often hold the key details that solve a case. This course bridges that gap with proven, science-based interview strategies that help officers elicit accurate, detailed, and reliable information. You’ll learn how to build trust, structure your questions for memory recall, and apply neuroscience-backed techniques that enhance every investigation. What You’ll Learn 1. What is a Cognitive Interview (CI)? Understand the foundation of CI, how it differs from standard interviews, and why it produces stronger, more credible statements. 2. Techniques That Work Discover how environment, timing, and interviewer approach influence witness recall — and how to use these factors to your advantage. 3. The Science Behind It Explore how stress, trauma, and the brain’s protective responses impact memory formation and recall. 4. Four Core Components of CI Recall everything Reverse the order Change perspective Reinstate the context 5. Questioning & Communication Skills Master open-ended questioning, active listening, and the verbal and nonverbal cues that encourage detailed, truthful responses. 6. Recognize the Challenges Understand the limitations, time investment, and common pitfalls of Cognitive Interviewing — and how to overcome them effectively. 💡 Why This Training Matters Cognitive Interviewing isn’t just another interview method — it’s a proven, research-driven approach that improves the accuracy and reliability of witness and victim statements. Every call starts with a victim. This training helps you let their voice guide your case to resolution — with empathy, precision, and professionalism.