ABSTRACT
The final statement is a written document or audio-video recording obtained from a victim, witness, or suspect that encompasses the discussion that occurs during the interview or interrogation. The statement is not necessarily a confession, although, in many cases, it is. The purpose of this statement is to lock an individual into the details admitted or statements made during the interview or interrogation. Formalizing the admission in written or recorded form deters the suspect, witness, or victim from changing the story and reduces the possibility that evidence or testimony will be lost or manufactured later at a hearing or trial. For victims and witnesses, it can also serve as a means to refresh their memory at a later date.
