buyingInterrogating Special Populations
Assuming the fact, that a detective bureau worker has special audience to collaborate with, he or she must be aware of some rules that ought to follow. Generally, when a juvenile is questioned by police officers, he or she undergoes stronger psychological pressure, rather than grown-ups. In this case, this social group (juvenile) is ensured with greater protection.
Consequently, a detective has to make reasonable efforts to be certain that a young witness does know and realize the Miranda rules (Sandt, 1996). In consideration of high children’s impression, police should follow extra precautions to be assured that any evidence given by the juvenile during an interrogation is voluntary.
Additionally, it is desirable not to question a juvenile without a presence of parents or legal guardian, especially at police station or similar places. Parents are considered to be able to lessen the fear or negative emotions that might be caused by a process of police questioning in an unfamiliar or intimidating way. In this case, critical state of a witness’s morale might prevent getting some priceless evidence for an investigation. As soon as presence of a parent or guardian has been secured, the Miranda rules should be explained again. After that, the young witness and a present parent or guardian should sign a Waiver of Miranda Rights form, and afterwards they should stay throughout the whole interview (Sandt, 1996).
During the court session, detective, owning all needed evidence, should be extremely attentive and resourceful in order to protect a juvenile. From the other hand, the witness should follow main rules of correct testifying: to answer only what he or she is asked, stick to the facts, think before speaking, and not to guess and not to lose a temper (Garbarino & Scott, 1989). Observing all this major points, the juvenile will only help a detective to prove his or her innocence and won’t compromise any human rights abuse from his side.
All in all, a detective should remember that a procedure of interrogating children is quite effortful and complicated. There are some certain cases, when he must show a high level of professionalism and ability to work with juveniles (for instance, be aware of child psychology). Not at any price, a detective shouldn’t wrest an admission of young witness, otherwise the whole investigation and court session might be jeopardized.