Interrogation tactics Texas law enforcement use in drug crimes

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 10-Feb-2015

People who have been charged with a drug-related crime are often subject to interrogation. In Texas and across the country, law enforcement employ a number of tactics with the hopes of obtaining a confession.

The Reid Technique is among the most common interrogation methods. According to John E. Reid & Associates, Inc., the method involves a structured interview of the person charged with a drug crime or other offense. A member of law enforcement will tell a suspect that there is no doubt about his or her guilt. The interrogator takes an understanding and non-demeaning approach to earn the person's trust. In some circumstances, the suspect may be isolated for long periods of time.

Other tactics include the following:

Law enforcement may also try to informally question a suspect, making it seem that they are simply trying to gather information. However, when people are unaware of their rights, they may fall into a trap of giving incriminating details.

When it comes to some drug crimes, people who are under the influence are especially susceptible in the interrogation room. According to the Innocence Project, certain techniques such as questioning someone in an impaired state can result in false confessions and serious consequences for the accused.

People who are aware of their rights in the interrogation room are better suited to preserve their freedom. Having an attorney present can prevent a false confession or other situation that could lead to an arrest and conviction.