Effective evaluation of forensic interviews: The Forensic Interview Trace (FIT)

Farrugia, Laura, Oxburgh, Gavin and Gabbert, Fiona (2019) Effective evaluation of forensic interviews: The Forensic Interview Trace (FIT). Investigative interviewing: Research and Practice, 10 (1). pp. 20-31. ISSN 2227-7439

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Abstract

Forensic interviewing forms an integral part of a police/law enforcement officer’s main duties and responsibilities. However, not every interviewer possesses suitable interview skills to be able to complete this effectively and despite the introduction of the PEACE model of interviewing, with the last ‘E’ focusing specifically on ‘Evaluation’, this stage of the interview model rarely gets the attention it deserves. This is concerning given the need for forensic interviews to be ethical, productive and admissible. The Forensic Interview Trace (FITã) is arecently developed tool designed to record all aspects of a forensic interview including questioning, interviewee responses and interview/interviewee characteristics. The development of this tool is considered within the context of a forensic interview and in comparison to similar tools, namely the Griffiths Question Map (GQM). Whilst still in its infancy and requiring empirical testing and validation, it is anticipated that the FITã will assist with the effective evaluations of forensic interviews in order to ensure compliance with relevant guidance andlegislation, as well as ensuring that effective interview skills pertain to best practice.

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