Investigative Statement Analysis

Investigative Statement Analysis is a method for detecting likely deceptions and omissions in language.  In this concise, practical one day course, students will learn the elements of Statement Analysis and how to apply them for more effective interviews.  We will analyze a variety of written and spoken statements – including suspect interviews, press conferences, 911 calls and ransom letters.  Because our work is not just to identify deception but to overcome it, we will then discuss how to use a subject’s own language to focus our interviews and investigations.

Investigative Statement Analysis complements investigators’ understanding of interview & interrogation methods and non-verbal communication.  This training is designed to enhance the work of detectives and investigators in the areas of: criminal investigations; internal affairs; background investigations; officer-involved incidents; corporate security and human resources investigations.  Statement Analysis is particularly useful for investigators whose cases involve telephonic and audio-recorded interviews, transcripts, and written responses – when clues must be found in words alone.

Seminar Highlights

• The language of deception
• How to recognize when someone is not answering the question
• Countering omissions through micro-action questioning
• 911 calls: summoning help, or building a cover story?
• Evaluation of victim and suspect claims in sexual assault investigation: beyond “he said” “she said.”
• Using Investigative Statement Analysis to focus interviews and interrogations

Course Outline