Evaluation and Analysis of Information
Kevin Sweeney · 2022
This chapter explores the importance of evaluation and analysis of evidence which are critical components of the forensic investigative interview technique (FIIT). Once properly gathered, evidence needs to be understood and placed in its correct context to advance the investigation. Evidence is important as it can be used to corroborate or challenge an interviewee’s account as well as tending to prove, or disprove, some aspect of the investigation independently. It is vital that all information or evidence encountered be examined through a critical and objective lens. This chapter looks at why biases can arise before introducing some tools to use to help alleviate the effects of biases. This includes the analytical tool of Analysis of Competing Hypotheses, whereby evidence is examined from different perspectives. Other decision-making and judgment tools are explored. The goal is to make explicit any biases rather than try to eliminate them, as that is virtually impossible.