POST adopts science‑based interviewing into ICI core; detectives and prosecutors spar over methods
POST integrated a research‑based 'science‑based interviewing' (SBI) model into its ICI core curriculum. Staff said SBI reduces false‑confession risk and improves information‑gathering; experienced detectives warned SBI is being presented as the only acceptable method and raised concerns about limiting legally useful tactics in complex child‑abuse and CSAM investigations.
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POST staff introduced an SBI curriculum into the ICI core investigative training, arguing the model — developed from High‑Value Detainee Interrogation Group research and field‑validated studies — emphasizes information‑gathering, rapport building, memory‑friendly question design, and reduced reliance on deceptive techniques that have been linked to false confessions. Andrew Mandansa presented the curriculum and told the commission SBI does not rely on tactics prohibited by AB 2644 (juvenile interviews) and is consistent with prosecutor preferences for defensible evidence.
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