Essentials of the Reid Technique: Criminal Interrogation and Confessions

This book provides all the necessary information on one of the most common forms of interview and interrogation used by law enforcement agencies. I bought it, I have read it thoroughly and also used it to write a final paper in a law enforcement class I was taking. The course, which is a necessity for having the qualifications needed to utilize this technique, is expensive. I have not and do not plan on taking the course. I promise all the necessary information is right here in this book. Law enforcement as a rule does not like to see this type of manual out in the public simply because a suspect, armed with the knowledge of what is coming during an interview, can easily outwit them. I say buy it and use it.

For most seasoned investigators, the book provides a confirmation of "street wise" tactics. For the less experienced, the book is a very good guide, but real-life practice is key. This is a must as a basic or go for the full version if you have time to read the "brick".

I used this for a training manual for my new hires as private investigators, it is hands down one of the best books ever written on interviewing and interrogation techniques. Even the experienced people were raving about the information in it. Can't ask for better than that!

If you cannot afford the expensive course given by Reid, or your agency is too "thrifty" to spend the money to send you, this book will give you a thorough overview. The technique is explained very well in two sections- the first part provides a synopsis of interview and interrogation essentials in some detail. Distinctions between Inerviews and Interrogations; Obtaining facts; the Interview Room; Investigator Attitude; Starting Interviews; Formulating Questions; Behavioral Analysis of Truthful and Untruthful Subjects. The second part explains the nine-step technique Reid has developed and perfected over years of use by many agencies. Written for a general reader, the writing avoids legalese and is well illustrated. Highly recommended!

As a school administrator, I find the information on interviewing and interrogation helpful in getting to the bottom of issues I previously have not been able to solve. The questioning techniques and the observation of behaviors presented in this book enable me to allow my students to tell the truth and help to solve their own issues. The resolution of these issues and the breaking down of lies and cover-up behavior is the first step to helping students make better decisions. This book is an invaluable resource in that regard.