Page 249 - Deception at work all chapters EBook

250 Deception at Work

Example : ‘The trouble is, Tom, I think you are involved in this and it is important that we work
together to clear it up.’

The suspect will either move into an acceptance position (in which case plan your ap-
proach in line with page [xref] or make a denial. In the worst case, you can continue, from
any point, with a factual approach or revert to a safe haven (see page [xref]). If the suspect
launches an attack, remain cool:

Example : ‘Bill, I have been very fair with you and I have told you exactly what I believe the
evidence shows. But I have an open mind, so please explain x [deal with one of the key
points].’

OPTION 4: DIRECT CONFRONTATION

In rare cases, where the evidence is already overwhelming you may use an assumptive opening
(i.e. that the suspect is guilty beyond doubt) and ambush him. This gives him minimal time
to compose himself, although it may result in an angry outburst that you will have to control,
probably by reverting to a safe haven.

The suspect should be kept waiting in the interview room and should ideally be seated. You
should enter holding a file, stand within the suspect’s personal space and deliver a direct ac-
cusation. For example, where the objective is criminal prosecution and the suspect is believed
to have stolen a number of PCs from the company, the opening might be as follows:

Example : ‘Good morning, Mr Smith. I am Bill Jones from the Audit Department. We are
investigating a case of theft of computers from the sales office. [Caution] The evidence we
have makes it clear that you are responsible and I want to give you the chance to tell me
about it and to work with me to get our property back.’

You should then sit down and wait for the suspect’s response. From this point onwards,
you are on your own, but remember the principles and the fact that you can always revert to
a safe haven.

OPTION 5: THE FORMALITY

This approach can be used where the evidence is already overwhelming, and the main objec-
tive of the interview is to give the suspect the opportunity to give his explanation. This is
usually essential if disciplinary proceedings are intended.

Example : ‘Bill, we have been investigating an allegation that you have been taking kickbacks
from vendors. I want to give you the chance of putting your side of the story. To be fair, and
to enable you to give your side of the story, I have to advise you …[Caution].’