Many criminal investigators and defense attorneys are already familiar with the Reid method for interrogations and confessions. For those new to the topic, the Reid Method is explained in the invaluable "Criminal Interrogations and Confessions" published by the Reid Group. This classic manual used by law enforcement nationwide is a must read for anyone involved in evaluating a confession or statement.
There are essentially nine steps to getting a confession according to the folks at the Reid Institute: (1)confront the suspect; (2) theme development; (3) stopping the suspect's denials; (4) overcomming objections from the suspect; (5) getting the suspect's attention; (6) the suspect loses resolve; (7) alternatives; (8) bringing the suspect into the conversation; and voila (9) the confession.
When investigating a client's confession to determine the accuracy and voluntariness of the confession, it is essential to understand the Reid Method. The Reid Institute Website is a wealth of information and includes publications, case law,trainings into the Reid method and even a critic's corner! The critic's corner focuses on the work of Dr. Richard Ofshe, a social psychologist at the University of California at Berkley. Dr. Ofshe and other experts have extensively studied the Reid Method and its connection to false and coerced confessions. The critic's corner contains transcripts of testimony of Dr. Ofshe and other experts in their studies of false and coerced confessions as well as their opinions regarding the Reid Method. For an entertaining breakdown of the Reid Method (complete with diagrams) check out "How Police Interrogation Works" by Julia Layton at How Stuff Works.
If you have a case with a confession, it is imperative to look very closely at the interrogation for signs of coercion or falsity. Consider contacting Dr. Ofshe or other experts in this field if you believe you might have a false or coerced confession.
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