When interviewing witnesses, which of the following should be prioritized?

Prioritizing avoiding interruptions during witness interviews is essential to ensure that the interviewee feels comfortable and can articulate their experiences fully. This encourages the witness to provide detailed and uninterrupted accounts of what they observed. When witnesses feel they are being listened to without interruption, they are more likely to share important information without becoming frustrated or withdrawn.

In an incident investigation, the accuracy and completeness of the information gathered from witnesses can significantly impact the overall understanding of the event. Allowing witnesses to speak freely without interruptions can lead to richer insights and more reliable data, ultimately aiding in the thoroughness of the investigation.

While maintaining control, guiding responses, and using closed questions may have their merits in specific contexts, prioritizing an uninterrupted conversation fosters a more open and trustworthy environment for the witness. This approach can lead to a more comprehensive collection of facts and a better understanding of the incident.