In the final part of a seven-part Policing Matters Roll Call series on use of force, host Jim Dudley engages with Jamie Borden from Critical Incident Review.
Borden focuses on a pivotal aspect of law enforcement procedures: the post-use of force interview. Borden underscores the significance of this process, arguably one of the most crucial moments in an officer’s career. The preliminary interview, typically conducted by a sergeant or supervisor, sets the stage for how the incident is perceived and analyzed. Borden delves into the complexities officers face when recounting their experiences, emphasizing the difference between an officer’s immediate perception and the eventual facts as they come to light.
Key learning points
The gap between truth and fact: Understanding the distinction between an officer’s truth — their perceived reality during the incident — and the established facts uncovered in hindsight is paramount. Bridging this gap through a comprehensive and honest interview is crucial for both the officer and the investigative process.
The importance of honesty and completeness: An officer’s ability to convey their experience honestly and completely, without necessarily aligning perfectly with the video evidence or other factual findings, is essential. This honesty serves as the bridge between their personal truth and the objective facts of the incident.
Preparing for the interview: Officers must approach their post-incident interviews with a clear understanding of their experiences and the limitations of human memory and perception. Providing a detailed account that captures the rationale behind their decisions, even if it deviates from the factual outcomes, is critical for a fair assessment.
Questions for discussion
- How can law enforcement training better prepare officers for the psychological impacts of a critical incident and the subsequent interview process?
- What strategies can be implemented to ensure that officers feel supported and able to share their experiences honestly in post-incident interviews?
- How can the gap between an officer’s perceived truth and the established facts be effectively communicated to the public to foster understanding and trust in the investigative process?
The entire series is available for viewing below.
