September 2026- Conducting Investigations

ONLINE LEARNING

Cohort 11 - September 2026

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Conducting investigations

ONLINE LEARNING

This module must be completed to comply with the Police Constable Entry Programme (PECP) curriculum on the National Graduate Leadership Programme. The module should take around 90 minutes to complete and does not need to completed all at once. You can return to the module as often as you like. Please aim to complete this module by Thursday 29 October 2026.

CONTENT WARNING

Today we will be learning and talking about conducting investigations, there is some reference to terror attacks and supporting vulnerabilities. Some of the content may be emotive and for some may cause upset and distress. ​ ​ Please look after yourselves during this online learning.​​ ​ We are here if you need to talk.

Understand the additional investigative actions that may be required according to the complexity of the investigation. Apply best practice when conducting an investigation. Identify and apply specific considerations when interviewing victims/witnesses. Understand the importance of the concept of memory upon interview methods and processes.

PCEP OBJECTIVES

Identify and apply specific considerations when interviewing victims/witnesses.

Considerations in interviewing victims and witnesses

During your time at academy, you were introduced to the core principles of recognising vulnerability and interviewing vulnerable victims and witnesses. This online learning module builds on that foundation by taking your understanding a step further. It focuses on how to secure the best possible evidence, navigate the relevant legal frameworks, and confidently take statements from witnesses, especially those who may be hesitant or unwilling to engage.

How to interview vulnerable, intimidated, significant witnesses

Trauma informed approach

Effective interviews with vulnerable or reluctant witnesses require careful preparation and adherence to core interviewing principles. These include:

• Avoiding interruptions
• Allowing the witness to freely recall events in their own words
• Creating a calm, respectful environment that encourages openness

Integrated care and interview strategy

Key information

Legal provisions

Special measures

Significant witnesses

Although this designation typically applies to indictable-only offences, officers may also consider treating witnesses as significant in other serious cases where their testimony is crucial to the investigation.

According to the Ministry of Justice (2022) Achieving Best Evidence in Criminal Proceedings: Guidance on interviewing victims and witnesses, and guidance on using special measures, a significant witness, sometimes referred to as a key witness, is defined as someone who:

• Has witnessed, either visually or through other senses, an indictable offence, part of such an offence, or events closely linked to it (including incriminating remarks made by the suspect before or after the incident).

• Has a close relationship with the victim or holds a central role in the investigation of an indictable offence.

Police officers themselves may be considered significant witnesses if they have directly observed serious offences such as:

• Murder or manslaughter
• Fatal road traffic collisions
• Serious physical or sexual assaults
• Kidnapping
• Firearm-related robberies
• Attempts or conspiracies to commit any of the above offence

Significant witnesses

Video recorded interviews

Specialist training

Reluctant witnesses

Understanding reluctance

Reluctant witnesses are individuals believed to have observed an offence, part of an offence, or events closely related to it, but who are hesitant or unwilling to engage with the investigative process. Interviewers may encounter reluctance from vulnerable, intimidated, or significant witnesses, and this hesitation can stem from a variety of factors, including:

• Negative perceptions of the police or criminal justice system, shaped by personal experience or societal narratives
• Fear of retaliation from the alleged perpetrator
• Concerns about community reaction or stigma
• Anxiety over their identity being disclosed
• Uncertainty about their role in the investigation

Building trust and rapport

Ongoing engagement and support

Seek guidance

Question

Understand the importance of the concept of memory upon interview methods and processes

Psychological and physiological influences on memory

Drugs

Injuries

Mental Health

Processing

Diet

Trauma

Understand and Realise the Impact of Trauma

After something traumatic happens, our memories aren’t perfect snapshots. In fact, we often “remember” more trauma than actually took place. Those extra or exaggerated details tend to go hand-in-hand with stronger PTSD re-experiencing symptoms (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts). Both deliberate recall (trying hard to remember) and spontaneous recall (images or thoughts popping up uninvited) can plant new details into the memory. Over weeks or months, these made-up bits get woven into our story until they feel like they really happened. This distortion can occur after a single shocking event—say, a car crash—or after long-term stress, like a deployment. And it gets worse when someone else suggests details for you (for example, through leading questions). Even public or surprising events you didn’t witness firsthand can be reshaped by the hints and suggestions you hear later.

Create a Safe, Predictable Environment

Build Trust Through Communication

Structure the interview

Ongoing support

Train, Review and Supervise

Different methodologies for conducting an interview i.e., cognitive / enhanced cognitive

Understanding how memory and context shape recall is essential for gathering accurate, detailed evidence. Two widely used approaches—cognitive interviewing and enhanced cognitive interviewing, provide structured techniques to help witnesses retrieve information. You covered both methods during your academy training.

Cognitive interviewing

Enhanced cognitive interviewing

Question

Understand the additional investigative actions that may be required according to the complexity of the investigation

Additional considerations and risks where the suspect is a police officer or police staff

In the year to 31 March 2024, forces finalised 54 647 complaints against 46072 identifiable officers. High-profile internal investigations draw intense scrutiny—how you handle each case directly affects public trust and organisational reputation (IOPC Annual Report, 2024). Most serious or complex conduct allegations are led by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) or specialist Professional Standards teams. If you must arrest or interview a colleague, engage the IOPC liaison officer without delay and follow the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice (APP) on Investigative Interviewing to ensure procedural integrity. Apply the College’s Professionalising Investigation Programme guidance to gauge public-safety implications and reputational harm. Serious allegations (e.g., corruption, abuse of authority, violence) must be escalated to senior PSD leads and the IOPC without delay. Early referral preserves evidence and protects potential victims. Adhere rigorously to the College of Policing Code of Ethics: treat the officer-suspect impartially, regardless of rank. Demonstrate procedural justice by clearly explaining the interview process, listening to concerns, and ensuring privacy and dignity throughout. Where conflicts of interest might arise, appoint an external force or IOPC investigator to guarantee independence.

Additional investigative processes that may be required e.g., inquests

Inquests are independent judicial inquiries that can shape and inform parallel police investigations. Their core function is to establish the facts surrounding a death—where, when, how, and in some cases why—which in turn ensures that criminal inquiries consider all pertinent evidence. The findings of an inquest bolster accountability within law enforcement. If an inquest uncovers deficiencies in investigative practice or officer conduct, it may trigger departmental reviews and procedural reforms. In this way, inquests not only hold agencies to account but also drive improvements in policing standards. Where there are serious concerns about how a death investigation was conducted, an inquest may be convened specifically to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of the police inquiry. Together, inquests and criminal investigations provide vital checks and balances in the justice system, promoting transparency and reinforcing public confidence in law enforcement.

Coroner's Inquest

Public inquest

Coroner's inquests

Coroner’s inquests are formal, court-style hearings that examine deaths that are sudden, unexplained, or occur under contested circumstances. They form a crucial part of the inquest system and often run alongside police investigations to establish how, when, and where the death occurred and identify any factors that contributed to the fatality. While their primary function is to pinpoint the medical cause, coroner’s inquests frequently reveal wider failings—such as safety breaches or procedural errors—that may have played a role. For instance, an inquest into a workplace fatality might uncover health-and-safety violations, triggering further inspections or policy changes. Though procedures differ across jurisdictions, a typical inquest involves: - A coroner presiding over the hearing - Witness testimony from family, experts, and any first responders - Examination of documents, medical records, and other evidence. The coroner’s findings can inform subsequent criminal prosecutions, civil claims, or regulatory action, underscoring the inquest’s close connection to policing and the justice system.

Public inquests

Public inquests address deaths that raise significant questions of state or institutional responsibility, ensuring full transparency where the circumstances prompt widespread interest. Unlike routine coroner’s inquests, these hearings are held openly and often attract media coverage because their findings can drive policy and procedural reform—particularly following deaths in custody, during policing operations, or other incidents involving public bodies.Key features of public inquests include: - Open courtroom proceedings, allowing press and public attendance - Detailed witness testimonies from family members, officials, and experts - Examination of evidence not only to establish how the death occurred but also to assess systemic factors - Formal recommendations at the conclusion, aimed at preventing future tragedies and improving institutional practices By shining a spotlight on failures or gaps within organisations, public inquests reinforce accountability, shape public confidence in law enforcement, and inform subsequent criminal or civil actions.

Impact that family court / coronial processes / parallel proceedings may have on an investigation

When parallel legal processes are underway, investigative teams must understand how these proceedings intersect with—and sometimes constrain—their work. Three key areas of overlap are civil actions running alongside criminal investigations, family court proceedings, and coronial inquests. Civil claims, such as a land‐ownership dispute coupled with alleged criminal theft of property, may hinge on the outcome of a related criminal investigation. Prosecutors generally insist the criminal case reach its conclusion before a civil court adjudicates the same facts. Investigators should flag any potential civil litigation early, preserving evidence and maintaining a clear audit trail to support both criminal charges and future civil remedies.

Coronial processes

Family court

Establishing the level of involvement in an incident or joint criminal enterprise

The doctrine of “joint enterprise” allows an individual to be convicted for a crime carried out by another person if a court finds that they foresaw the likelihood of that offence occurring. Historically, it has been applied disproportionately to children and young people involved in gang-related incidents—a practice criticised on the grounds that minors often lack the developmental maturity to anticipate and steer clear of escalating situations. In 2016, the Supreme Court acknowledged that the doctrine had been misconstrued and clarified that liability now requires proof of intent to encourage or assist the principal offender. Despite this ruling, joint enterprise prosecutions remain commonplace, fueling concerns that the law is used to target young people on the basis of their ethnicity or social connections rather than concrete evidence of wrongdoing. Critics argue that it offers a shortcut for law enforcement to arrest large numbers of suspects with uneven levels of culpability, resulting in convictions and sentences that exceed many individuals’ actual involvement. For further insight and support, organizations such as Joint Enterprise Not Guilty by Association offer detailed guidance and advocacy

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Apply guidance and processes relating to international enquiries / investigations

Key considerations associated with international enquiries / investigations

When investigating suspects with potential overseas links, extra steps and specialist support ensure accurate identification and effective disruption of transnational crime.

Routine Policing

Post-Charge Requirements

Custody procedures

Specialist support structures

Confirming the identity of a foreign national suspect

When first encountering a foreign national suspect, it is essential to establish their identity, immigration status, and any prior convictions. These steps ensure the individual is managed correctly and support wider criminal and immigration enquiries.

Searches and Seizures under the UK Borders Act 2007

Voluntary Attenders and Out-of-Court Disposals

Verifying Authenticity of Documents

Initial identification checks

Assisting in an overseas enquiry: investigation and considerations in respect of data sharing

RequestsOutgoing: ACRO submits requests on behalf of UK agencies for checks on overseas convictions or other public protection needs. Incoming: ACRO responds to foreign requests for conviction histories of persons under investigation abroad.

When a case spans borders—whether to gather intelligence, exchange evidence, or arrange extradition—investigators must follow formal data-sharing procedures. This ensures that overseas material is obtained lawfully and will be admissible in UK courts. Working with Immigration Enforcement (IE) can also provide tactical options to disrupt criminal activity or support transnational investigations. Secure Channels for Information Exchange - Non-EU countries: INTERPOL’s I-24/7 system - EU countries: UKCRIS Two Main Exchange Processes - Outgoing: ACRO notifies foreign authorities when their nationals are convicted in the UK. - Incoming: ACRO receives notifications when UK nationals are convicted abroad.

Conducting Foreign Conviction Checks All suspects should have their overseas conviction history checked. Local forces use different ACRO International Criminal Conviction Exchange forms or integrated IT processes—check the force intranet or contact your International Liaison Officer (ILO), International SPOC, or PNC bureau for the correct procedure. Always include: full name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, gender, and any known aliases. Some countries may also require additional identifiers (see the ACRO Knowledge Hub for country-specific requirements).

Mutual legal assistance, letters of request and obligations for incoming and outgoing requests

When an investigation requires evidence or cooperation from abroad, Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) provides the formal framework for requesting and sharing material across borders. In the UK, these requests are known as Letters of Request (LOR) or International Letters of Request (ILOR). What an ILOR Includes - Case summary and purpose of the request - Specific evidence or actions required - Relevant legal provisions to ensure overseas compliance and UK admissibility

Outgoing MLA Requests

Incoming MLA Requests

Services available to an investigation for both intelligence and evidential material

Police-to-Police Intelligence

International databases

When investigations cross borders, a range of specialised services and tools are available to gather both intelligence and evidence lawfully and efficiently. By leveraging these databases, intelligence channels, forensic gateways, travel records, and immigration-enforcement capabilities, investigators can build robust cross-border cases and ensure all evidence meets UK admissibility standards.

Forensic Support

INTERPOL Notices and Diffusion

Travel Data

Services available to an investigation for both intelligence and evidential material

Immigration Enforcement Support

• Criminal Casework and Community Protection Command Oversees deportation of foreign national offenders (FNOs) and monitors them in prison or the community.
• Criminal and Financial Investigation (CFI) Crime-trained immigration officers investigating immigration-related offences and financial crime.
• Immigration Intelligence Team Collects, assesses, and disseminates intelligence on immigration law abuse and related criminality, including overseas operations.

• National Command and Control Unit (NCCU): 24/7 advice on immigration status, document checks, and enforcement options for EEA and non-EEA nationals.
• Immigration Compliance and Enforcement (ICE): Regional teams that execute intelligence-led operations, detain non-compliant foreign nationals, and support custody checks.
• Interventions and Sanctions Directorate (ISD): Enforces restrictions on illegally resident individuals across housing, banking, healthcare (secondary care), driving licences, employment, and public funds.

Intra and extradition processes for inbound and outbound requests

When investigations span multiple jurisdictions, understanding extradition procedures is vital. Extradition enables one country to request the surrender of an individual so they can stand trial or serve a sentence elsewhere. In the UK, extradition is governed by the Extradition Act 2003 and related bilateral or multilateral treaties.

Outgoing extradition

Outgoing extradition (from the UK)

1. Authority and Legislation - EU Member States: Part 1 of the Extradition Act 2003; requests certified by the National Crime Agency (NCA). - Non-EU States: Part 2 of the Act; relies on bilateral treaties or, where none exist, on “special extradition arrangements.” 2. Process Steps - Request submitted to the UK Central Authority (UKCA)—the NCA for EU requests, the Home Office for others. - UKCA decides whether to certify the request. - If certification is granted (and a UK warrant is required), Westminster Magistrates’ Court (WMC) issues the arrest warrant. - Upon arrest, the suspect appears before WMC for a preliminary hearing. - Full extradition hearings take place. - Part 2 cases only: Secretary of State makes the final extradition decision after the court process.

3.Provisional Arrests - Foreign states may request a provisional arrest—before paperwork is complete—via the UKCA or INTERPOL I-24/7. - In urgent cases, an arrest without a warrant can proceed but must be cleared with the International Crime Coordination Centre (ICCC) or National Extradition Unit (NEU) first.

Incoming extradition (to the UK)

1. Nationality Bars- Since the UK’s EU exit, 14 EU countries no longer extradite their own nationals to the UK: Austria · Croatia · Czech Republic · Denmark* · Finland · France · Germany · Greece · Latvia · Poland · Portugal* · Slovakia · Slovenia · Sweden - *Denmark and Portugal apply conditional bars based on case circumstances. 2. Impact on UK Investigations - If the suspect is a national of a bar-state, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) must be notified early to explore alternative measures. - Key notification points: - Early Advice requested (at investigative stage) - Pre-Charge Decision stage (if suspect may reside or flee to a bar-state) - Any point post-charge if the suspect returns to their home country

3.Consequences of Non-Notification:- Delay or loss of extradition rights - Risk of suspects evading trial - Potential collapse of prosecutions and reputational damage

Approvals and procedures to be adhered to when required to deploy overseas

Joint Investigation Teams

Legal Basis and Coordination

A joint investigation team (JIT) is a time-limited, case-specific legal arrangement that brings together judicial and law enforcement representatives from two or more jurisdictions to tackle cross-border crime. It enables partner agencies to coordinate investigations and prosecutions in parallel, share evidence in real time, and attend operations—such as house searches and interviews—in each other’s territories, overcoming language and procedural hurdles. It allows:

• Real-time collaboration and evidence exchange

• Joint operational capacity across borders
• Streamlined parallel prosecutions in multiple jurisdictions
• Shared expertise and best practice via the JITs Network

Composition and Setup

Establishment Procedures

Importance of agreeing jurisdiction when an investigation crosses force or international boundaries

1. Early Jurisdictional Clarification - Define lead and supporting forces at the outset—identifying which agency has primacy over each element of the investigation (forensic, intelligence, tactical). - Secure diplomatic or inter-force agreements (e.g., via the International Crime Coordination Centre, Eurojust or Interpol) to grant legal powers and enable evidence gathering abroad. 2. Specialist Skills and Knowledge - Cross-border offences—such as cybercrime, organised sex offending, illicit drug trafficking and firearms smuggling—demand tailored expertise in digital forensics, victim liaison, financial tracing and firearms intelligence. - Local liaison officers and specialist units (e.g., Regional Organised Crime Units, National Crime Agency) bring experience in international protocols, language requirements and legal frameworks.

3. Operational Coordination and Victim Support - In high-profile cases—Tunisia terrorist attack (2015), 9/11 response or the Madeleine McCann disappearance—multi-agency coordination was critical for evidence sharing, witness interviews and media management. - Family Liaison Officers deploy across borders to support victims’ families, guide repatriation of remains and maintain consistent communication. 4. Disaster Victim Identification (UK DVI) - The UK DVI unit provides a national capability for mass-fatality incidents both domestically and overseas. - Responsibilities include coordinating international DVI protocols, overseeing the recovery and identification of bodies, and liaising with foreign authorities to facilitate secure repatriation. - UK DVI also offers operational support to Counter Terrorism Command and local forces during complex cross-border incidents.

Agreeing jurisdiction ensures resources—such as forensic analysts, interpreters and specialist investigators—are correctly allocated. Clear roles prevent evidence gaps, reduce delays in extradition or mutual legal assistance, and uphold the integrity of witness statements and forensic material.

The range of tactical options that can be used at a border in a manhunt

The College of Policing has assembled the Menu of Tactics — a comprehensive collection of powers and strategies available to law enforcement and partner agencies. Designed to inspire creative, problem-solving approaches for disrupting criminal activity, this resource puts a wide range of proven options in an accessible document, curated by subject matter experts. Access the full Menu of Tactics via the link below.

College of Policing: Menu of Tactics

Guidance and processes applicable to an international and / or European investigation / enquiry, including digital information

When investigations involve digital information across borders, specific international frameworks and national procedures ensure evidence is gathered lawfully, preserved quickly, and shared effectively. 1. Budapest Convention on Cybercrime - The UK joined the Council of Europe’s Budapest Convention in 2011 to align laws and speed up cybercrime investigations. - It enables rapid preservation and transfer of electronic evidence between signatory states. 2. Key Procedural Measures Under the Convention, police can formally request: - Preservation of stored computer data before it is altered or deleted - Preservation and controlled disclosure of event data (logs, timestamps) - Legal authority to compel service providers to produce evidence - Search and seizure of devices and digital media - Real-time collection of event data during cyber incidents - Interception of content data (with appropriate legal authorisation)

3. Transborder Access and 24/7 Network- The Convention authorises limited direct access to stored data in another country when urgent. - A 24/7 contact network ensures swift mutual assistance among cybercrime units. 4. Second Additional Protocol - The UK has signed the 2022 Protocol to further streamline cross-border disclosure of electronic evidence, reducing delays in obtaining crucial data. 5. Working with Technology Companies - Major providers (e.g., Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, Google) maintain dedicated legal teams for law-enforcement requests. - For non-content communications data—such as subscriber name, address, or service usage—officers may request information directly via their local Communications Intelligence Unit’s Single Point of Contact (SPoC) under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.

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End of Unit

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Forensic Support

- AFIS Fingerprint Gateway Upload and search fingerprint NIST files against INTERPOL’s Automated Fingerprint Identification System. - DNA Gateway Submit offender, crime-scene, missing-person, or unidentified-remains profiles for cross-checking. - Prüm Convention Access Automated EU-wide matching of DNA and fingerprints from crime scenes

Special measures

Witnesses eligible under the YJCEA may benefit from:

• Video-recorded interviews used as evidence-in-chief

• Communication aids such as speech-generating software or symbol boards/books

Injuries

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects the brain by causing direct damage, stretching of nerve fibers, and triggering inflammation. Even mild TBIs can lead to lasting problems with attention, memory, and recalling personal experiences. People often say they feel slower when processing information, struggle to learn new things, and have patchy memories of past events. Tests often show difficulties with planning and flexible thinking, which can make memory issues worse. Specialist rehabilitation focuses on helping the brain heal and teaching strategies to work around these challenges.

Composition and Setup

Members include judges, prosecutors, and police officers from each participating state.The team is formed by a written agreement specifying: - Parties involved - Investigation objectives - Duration and review points - Rules on evidence handling and confidentiality

Incoming MLA Requests

All incoming ILORs arrive via one of these UK central authorities: - Home Office - His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) - Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (Scotland) Each authority coordinates the execution of foreign requests, ensuring compliance with UK law and timely responses.

Enhanced cognitive interviewing

Building on the core cognitive techniques, the enhanced model adds social and communication elements to support memory retrieval:

• Rapport Building: Spending more time at the start to establish trust, explain the process, and reduce anxiety.
• Transfer of Control: Allowing the witness to guide the pace—for example, signalling when they need a break or wish to pause.
• Supportive Environment: Using open body language, appropriate tone, and clear explanations of why questions are asked.
• Active Listening and Reinforcement: Reflecting back what the witness says and reinforcing their cooperation, which helps maintain engagement and motivation.

Mental health

Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD can strongly affect memory through both emotional and biological changes in the brain. Depression is often linked to shrinkage in the hippocampus and a tendency to remember negative events more than positive ones. This can lead to vague personal memories and trouble planning for the future. Anxiety and PTSD, on the other hand, often involve an overactive amygdala and stress system, which can cause intense flashbacks and make it harder to recall everyday information. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral and trauma-informed approaches aim to rebalance these memory patterns by helping people manage emotions and update memories in healthier ways.

Verifying Authenticity of Documents

Fraudulent or stolen identity papers are common. Use the following tools to check genuineness:- On-site document scanners (where available). - Home Office National Document Fraud Unit guidance and support (0203 014 8072, ndfudutyofficer@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk). - PRADO (Public Register of Authentic Travel and Identity Documents) and the Edison database. - Police National Computer #PE check for lost or stolen documents. - INTERPOL Stolen/Lost Travel Documents (SLTD) database via I-24/7 (confirm positive matches with the NCA before action).

Family court proceedings

Because public law proceedings often involve urgent safeguarding concerns, the police will as a general rule provide the required disclosure within 20 business days, unless the court has approved an alternative timetable. If it becomes clear that disclosure cannot be completed within 20 business days, the police will notify the applicant as soon as practicable and offer revised, realistic timescales. Local protocols may further refine these arrangements. In cases with a linked criminal investigation or prosecution, the local authority should give the police sufficient notice of hearing dates and supply any Family Court orders—redacted where necessary—to ensure proper coordination.

Cases involving domestic abuse or child custody often feature non-court orders that restrict communication between parties (for example, limiting discussions to child-related matters only). If one parent is arrested, the other—who may lack formal custody—could rely on extended family members (such as grandparents) for childcare. Effective investigation requires a multi-agency response:

• Liaise with social services to understand existing child-protection plans.
• Engage third-party intermediaries when direct contact with a witness or victim is prohibited.
• Coordinate with family court practitioners to ensure evidence collection does not breach confidentiality or custody arrangements

Drugs

Psychoactive drugs mainly affect the brain by changing how neurotransmitters work, which can influence how we form and recall memories. Depressants like alcohol and benzodiazepines often make it harder to remember things if taken during learning. On the other hand, low doses of stimulants like amphetamines might improve focus, but higher doses can harm memory. Over time, repeated use of both legal and illegal drugs can change the structure and function of key brain areas—especially the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—leading to problems with learning and memory.

INTERPOL Notices and Diffusion

- Notices Global alerts—such as Red Notices (wanted persons) and Yellow Notices (missing persons)—visible to all member states. - Diffusions Targeted alerts sent to specific countries or regions, reducing wider exposure of sensitive information. - Both are managed and issued by the UKICB.

Specialised support structures

Immigration Enforcement (IE)Investigators can work with IE to disrupt criminal activity and support cross-border enquiries. International Crime Coordination Centre (ICCC) Established in December 2018, the ICCC advises UK police on using international legal instruments post-EU exit. It offers guidance on specific measures and collaborates with government and operational partners. Force Liaison and Points of Contact - Every force has an International Liaison Officer (ILO) as the first port of call for international advice. - Two regional ICCC-linked Single Points of Contact (SPOCs) provide additional support. - Multi-agency collaboration—including social services when victims or witnesses are vulnerable—is vital. Organised Crime Expertise Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) offer intelligence and operational support against serious organised crime groups (OCGs). Focus on targeting exploiters rather than exploited individuals.

Build Trust Through Communication

• Begin with informal, rapport-building conversation—acknowledge the difficulty of the situation.

• Use open-ended questions (“Can you tell me what happened in your own words?”) rather than leading or binary queries.

• Reflect back what you hear (“It sounds like you felt…”) to validate emotions without putting words in their mouth.

• Be transparent about your role, the purpose of the interview, and how the information will be used.

Understanding reluctance

The first step for interviewers is to explore and understand the reasons behind a witness’s reluctance. Only by identifying these concerns can appropriate steps be taken to address them. Interviewers must have a solid understanding of: - The criminal justice process - Special measures available to intimidated witnesses - Local protocols for witness protection and support services

Create a Safe, Predictable Environment

• Choose a private, quiet room with comfortable seating and temperature control.

• Explain the interview format up front: who will be present, how long it may take, where breaks can occur.

• Offer water, tissues and a clear route for the interviewee to pause or end the meeting if distressed.

• Where available, allow a support person or advocate to sit in or nearby, as per special-measures provisions.

Integrated care and interview strategy

In cases where trauma is likely, interview plans should be developed alongside a comprehensive victim/witness care strategy. This should include:

• Clear options for accessing emotional support and therapeutic services.

• A safeguarding policy that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of the witness as well as investigative outcomes.

Ongoing support

- Provide clear information on who to contact if they have further memories or distress afterwards.- Signpost local victim-support organisations, mental-health helplines or trauma specialists, in line with your force’s care strategy. - Keep records not only of what was said, but how the person appeared—notes on affect and any moments of dissociation help supervisors tailor follow-up support.

Video recorded Interviews

using video recording to preserve best evidence. These interviews should be conducted in line with national guidance and supervised appropriately to ensure compliance with legal and procedural standards.

Types of Assistance: Taking witness statements (if police-to-police enquiries fail) - Searching for and seizing property - Conducting formal suspect interviews - Gathering banking or financial records - Obtaining telecommunications data - Authorising UK officers to travel overseas to investigate - Supporting covert operations

Outgoing MLA Requests

Authority and Transmission: Drafted by a court or designated prosecutor (often the CPS in England and Wales) under the Crime (International Cooperation) Act 2003. Sent via the Home Office through diplomatic channels. Timing: Can be made at any stage: before charge, during investigation, or prior to arrest.

Best practice: - Use MLA only for evidence that cannot be secured by other means (e.g., public-domain material or direct police cooperation). - Await formal written authorisation before deploying UK personnel abroad.

How ACRO handles requests

ACRO forwards your request to the destination country, including fingerprints when available to confirm identity. Responses may include: - Positive/negative conviction data - Other relevant police intelligence Turnaround times: - EU countries: standard 20 working days (urgent cases can be prioritised) - Non-EU countries: no formal deadline, but urgent cases are chased regularly Any foreign-language responses are translated before delivery. If the subject’s identity remains unclear, ACRO will seek further information before issuing a full reply.

Processing

How strong a memory is often depends on how deeply we process the information. If we only notice surface details—like how a word sounds or looks—that’s called shallow processing, and it usually leads to weaker memories. But when we connect new information to things we already know, give it meaning, or relate it to personal experiences, that’s deep processing—and it helps create stronger, longer-lasting memories. In interviews, encouraging witnesses to think more deeply about what they experienced can lead to:

• Richer accounts – They remember more details and context.
• Better memory retention – Deeply processed memories are less likely to fade or get confused.
• Less suggestibility – When witnesses build their own story, they’re less likely to be influenced by leading questions.
• Using these techniques not only supports how memory works but also helps ensure that witness testimony is as accurate and reliable as possible.

Seek guidance

Interviewers should consult with supervisors, the senior investigating officer, or an interview adviser when needed, in line with the National Investigative Interviewing Strategy (ACPO, 2009).

Key things to consider

• Age
• Gender
• Race, culture, ethnicity, religion, and first language
• Preferred name and form of address

International databases

- INTERPOL I-24/7 Portal Instant access to global records on fingerprints, DNA, stolen vehicles, firearms, lost travel documents, and wanted persons. - UK International Crime Bureau (UKICB) Adds foreign “wanted” notices to the UK’s Police National Computer (PNC) for wider visibility. - Document Registers PRADO and Edison databases help verify travel and identity documents against authentic templates.

Travel Data

- Advance Passenger Information (API) Traveller document and journey details supplied under the Immigration Act 1971. - Passenger Name Records (PNR) Booking data, contact information, payment details, co-traveller lists, and full itineraries. - Access Data obtained via the National Border Targeting Centre (NBTC) or through remote-access arrangements.

Trauma informed approach

A trauma-informed approach recognises how trauma can impact a person’s emotional state, behaviour, and ability to recall memories. Interviewers should:

• Be sensitive to signs of distress or disassociation
• Build and maintain a strong rapport to support the witness throughout the process
• Understand that trauma may influence the pace, structure, and content of the interview

For further guidance on trauma management in interviews, see Risan, Milne and Binder (2020), and Smith and Milne (2018).

How ACRO handles requests

ACRO forwards your request to the destination country, including fingerprints when available to confirm identity. Responses may include: - Positive/negative conviction data - Other relevant police intelligence Turnaround times: - EU countries: standard 20 working days (urgent cases can be prioritised) - Non-EU countries: no formal deadline, but urgent cases are chased regularly Any foreign-language responses are translated before delivery. If the subject’s identity remains unclear, ACRO will seek further information before issuing a full reply.

Initial identifcation checks

- Record all personal details and confirm with any presented travel or identity documents.- Scan and bag original documents separately in exhibit bags; notify Immigration Enforcement (IE) of any seized documents. - Run fingerprint checks via LiveScan and share results with the IE National Command and Control Unit (NCCU). - Request previous foreign convictions through ACRO.

Coronial Processes

Inquests into sudden or unexplained deaths can surface discrepancies in medical forms or highlight questions about the circumstances of death. Investigators must work closely with the coroner’s office to:

• Clarify any inconsistencies between initial incident reports and post-mortem findings.
• Provide timely access to forensic evidence, witness statements, and scene photographs.
• Adapt investigative timelines to accommodate the coroner’s fact-finding hearings, ensuring neither process unduly delays the other.

Manchester Arena attack 2017

One recent high-profile public inquest examined the deaths of 22 victims killed in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack on 22 May 2017. Sitting as an Article 2 inquest, the public hearings—reconvened in early 2021—scrutinised venue security, intelligence-sharing protocols, and emergency response. The coroner’s report ultimately made recommendations on counter-terrorism preparedness and mass-venue safety, influencing national policy on public-event security

Train, Review and Supervise

- Ensure all interviewing staff complete the College’s trauma-informed care and treatment (STRICT) modules, plus any local specialist training on serious-violence victims.- Regularly debrief under supervision to flag patterns of distress and adjust practice. - Audit interviews for adherence to trauma-focused principles and embed learning into future training cycles. By weaving these elements into every interview, officers can uphold the dignity of vulnerable individuals, safeguard wellbeing, and maximise the quality of the evidence they give.

Establishment Procedures

Early “round-table” meeting of investigators, prosecutors, and/or judges from all jurisdictions to:- Define the international scope of the crime - Agree roles, logistics, and information-sharing protocols - Draft and sign the JIT agreement, potentially facilitated by Eurojust or Europol, depending on the states’ membership status. - Obtain any necessary diplomatic clearances or deployment approvals for overseas staff—liaising with the National Extradition Unit (NEU), International Crime Coordination Centre (ICCC), and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office as required

Ongoing engagement and support

If a witness remains reluctant, they should be reassured that they can change their mind at any time. Contact details for follow-up should be provided, and in suitable cases, a follow-up visit may be considered. However, care must be taken to ensure the witness does not feel coerced or pressured.

Impact of trauma

Treat trauma as common among those you interview. Even a single incident can leave lasting psychological scars. Be alert for signs such as hypervigilance, dissociation, emotional numbing or sudden agitation. Remember that both “hot” (vivid, sensory) and “cold” (detached, analytical) memory processes may be affected by trauma.

Building trust and raport

Establishing rapport is essential and may require multiple sessions. Interviewers should:

• Take reasonable steps to address the witness’s concerns before any formal interview
• Provide a general overview of the offence under investigation and explain why the witness may be relevant
• Avoid discussing specific details of the allegation or pressuring the witness to speak or give evidence
• The goal is to empower the witness with enough information to make an informed decision about their involvement.

All interactions should be documented—either through written notes or audio/visual recordings, depending on the circumstances.

Reading terror attack 2020

One of the most high-profile recent coroner’s inquests in England examined the deaths of James Furlong, Joseph Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails following the terror attack at Forbury Gardens in Reading on 20 June 2020. Sir Adrian Fulford was appointed as Judge Coroner for that series of inquests, which concluded in April 2024. The hearings explored not only the immediate cause of each death but also wider issues such as public-space security, emergency response coordination, and information sharing between agencies—findings that are now informing both policy reforms and policing practices nationwide.

Legal provisions for special measures:

Under the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 (YJCEA), special measures are available to support vulnerable or intimidated witnesses:

• Section 16: Applies to witnesses under 18 or those whose evidence may be compromised due to mental health issues, cognitive impairments, or physical disabilities/disorders.

• Section 17: Applies where a witness may experience fear or distress about giving evidence.

Diet

What we eat can have a big impact on how our brain works. Diets high in saturated fats and sugars—like those common in Western eating habits—are linked to memory problems and faster mental decline, especially in areas of the brain like the hippocampus that are key for learning. On the other hand, diets rich in plants, like the Mediterranean diet, are full of nutrients such as omega-3s and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support brain health. Studies show that people who stick to these healthier diets tend to do better on memory, attention, and thinking tests throughout their lives. These eating patterns help keep the brain flexible, reduce harmful inflammation, and support blood flow.

Legal Basis and Coordination

- Established under Article 20 of the Second Additional Protocol to the 1959 Convention.- Within the EU framework, JITs are coordinated by Eurojust. - The UK, as a third-country under the UK-EU Agreement, retains the right to open files at Eurojust and convene coordination meetings alongside EU Member States.

Routine Policing Encounters

Even outside custody, officers should:- Verify identity and immigration status. - Check any available identity documents. - Review previous criminal records through ACRO or other databases. These steps help confirm suspect identity and surface any outstanding warrants or foreign convictions.

Searches and Seizures under the UK Borders Act 2007

Section 44 SearchesUse this power to enter and search premises without a warrant when: - A suspect is arrested on suspicion of an offence. - It is believed they are not a British citizen. - Nationality documents may be found on premises occupied or controlled by the suspect. - Written authorization is granted by an inspector or above (chief immigration officer for IE staff). The authorising officer must record the factual grounds for suspicion and specify the documents sought. Section 46 Seizures This provision allows seizure and retention of nationality documents when a suspect may be removable from the UK and retention would assist their removal.

Custody Procedures for Foreign Nationals

When a foreign national is detained, undertake the following checks:- Fingerprinting (LiveScan) – Run fingerprints to confirm identity against UK databases. - Immigration Status (IE NCCU) – Contact the IE National Command and Control Unit for real-time status checks. - Document Seizure – Collect passports, visas, or other identity papers. - Overseas Conviction History (ACRO) – Request foreign criminal records to identify past offences abroad. - INTERPOL I-24/7 Check – Instantly discover international notices (e.g., wanted persons, missing individuals, Green Notices). – Verify positive matches with the National Crime Agency before taking action.

Post-charge requirements

- IM3 Deportation Liability NoticeServe this notice on any foreign national aged 17+ charged with an imprisonable offence. - Ongoing Overseas Checks Continue to liaise with ACRO for updates on foreign convictions as the case progresses.

Structure the Interview to Minimise Re-traumatisation

Apply the College’s specialist techniques:- Context Reinstatement: Gently guide the witness to reconstruct sights, sounds and feelings from the event. - Free Recall: Allow the interviewee to narrate events uninterrupted for as long as possible before probing for details. - Report Everything: Encourage even seemingly trivial details—they often unlock deeper recall. - Pace the session to the individual: longer pauses, shorter questioning blocks and planned breaks all reduce cognitive overload.

Police-to-Police Intelligence

- INTERPOL Enquiry Channels Formal requests for intelligence or case updates, submitted via the National Crime Agency (NCA) using standard INTERPOL enquiry forms and a risk-assessment (Form C). - NCA Liaison Network Overseas liaison officers in key locations facilitate rapid information-sharing and operational support.

Specialist training

The College of Policing has reviewed the National Police Curriculum and developed a suite of centralised learning resources to support officers in working with victims and witnesses. This includes specialist training focused on interviewing techniques, trauma-informed practice, and the use of special measures.

Cognitive interviewing

This method focuses on memory retrieval techniques grounded in cognitive psychology:- Context Reinstatement: Guiding the witness to mentally recreate the environment, emotions, and sensory details of the event. - Varied Recall Order: Asking the witness to describe what happened in reverse sequence or from different starting points. - Complete Reporting: Encouraging every detail, however minor, to serve as a cue for further recall. - Alternate Perspective: Inviting the witness to tell the story from another person’s viewpoint. These stages aim to unlock the witness’s stored memories without introducing new information.

Voluntary Attenders and Out-of-Court Disposals

Even when dealing with foreign nationals outside custody—through voluntary attendance or community resolutions—officers must:- Confirm identity and immigration status. - Check for previous offending history. These measures safeguard the integrity of both criminal investigations and immigration enforcement.