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POST adopts science‑based interviewing into ICI core; detectives and prosecutors spar over methods
Summary
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.
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.
The proposal set off an extended, at times heated, debate. Several experienced detectives and county sheriff representatives said they value tools such as minimization or ruses in certain cases (for example, some child sexual abuse investigations and CSAM cases where evidence is limited) and objected to SBI being framed as the sole correct method. "SBI has its place," one detective said, "but to present it as the only way risks undermining investigators who have long used other lawful techniques successfully."
Proponents countered that SBI provides a structured planning process, reduces confirmation bias, and is field‑validated to increase reliable information while lowering the risk of coerced or false confessions. Commissioners asked POST to return in September with additional materials, including input from prosecutors (CDAA) and evaluations of how SBI is delivered in practice, and staff agreed to consult further with stakeholders and present options for integrating SBI without foreclosing other lawful, context‑dependent tactics.
Provenance: topicintro SEG 4610, topfinish SEG 5962
