ABSTRACT
In this chapter we review the psychological literature and make practical suggestions for interviewing suspected sexual murderers. We start by outlining the key factors that influence a suspect’s denial and confession, with particular reference to factors that are relevant to sexual murderers. Then we discuss the importance of preparation and planning with regards to what needs to be done when interviewing people suspected of this crime. For example, preparation may involve finding out background information and seeing how the suspect has responded to previous questions. We then suggest a staged approach to interviewing suspects, starting with eliciting an initial account from the suspect and then moving on to questioning strategies. Then we talk about ways of presenting evidence to the suspect and ways of challenging the suspect’s account, if this is required. Finally, we talk about the importance of authenticating the suspect’s account and ways of preventing false confessions.
