What action can potentially intimidate witnesses during an investigation?

What action can potentially intimidate witnesses during an investigation?

• A. Offering them support
• B. Striking up casual conversations
• C. Pressuring them for immediate answers
• D. Providing them with legal counsel

Answer: (C)

Pressuring witnesses for immediate answers can create a high-pressure environment that may intimidate them. This approach can make individuals feel uncomfortable, anxious, or fearful about the repercussions of their responses, ultimately discouraging them from sharing accurate and honest information. When witnesses feel pressured, they might second-guess their memories or hesitate to provide details, which can compromise the integrity of the investigation. Effective witness interviewing should be conducted with care, allowing individuals to feel safe and supported so they can freely disclose information without fear of intimidation or undue stress. In contrast, offering support, striking up casual conversations, and providing legal counsel are all actions that typically promote a positive environment where witnesses can feel more at ease and willing to cooperate. These approaches can help build trust and may encourage witnesses to share more comprehensive and truthful accounts of what they witnessed.

Pressuring witnesses for immediate answers can create a high-pressure environment that may intimidate them. This approach can make individuals feel uncomfortable, anxious, or fearful about the repercussions of their responses, ultimately discouraging them from sharing accurate and honest information. When witnesses feel pressured, they might second-guess their memories or hesitate to provide details, which can compromise the integrity of the investigation. Effective witness interviewing should be conducted with care, allowing individuals to feel safe and supported so they can freely disclose information without fear of intimidation or undue stress.

In contrast, offering support, striking up casual conversations, and providing legal counsel are all actions that typically promote a positive environment where witnesses can feel more at ease and willing to cooperate. These approaches can help build trust and may encourage witnesses to share more comprehensive and truthful accounts of what they witnessed.