False confessions are just one more reason why it’s bad to make statements to authorities
This story (see below) discusses the existence and prevalence of false confessions and how there are wrongful convictions due to an accused being coerced or tricked into making a statement, even confessing to a crime they didn’t commit. Many people would say that they would never confess to a crime, especially a major crime, if they were innocent. Yet year after year we continue to hear of such cases. In fact, many law enforcement officers are trained in interrogation methods, such as the Reid techniques. These measure are designed to get every questioned suspect to confess, whether they are guilty or not.
This is just one reason to make no statements to authorities, police officers, investigators and agents. There are many more reasons. First, if you are suspected of an offense already by an investigator, it is because he is aware of some other evidence or witness statement. Nothing you can say will change his mind. Second, if you deny the allegations, even just say, “I didn’t do it,” you are now subjecting yourself to possible additional charges for making a false official statement. Also, the interrogator already knows some information before he starts to question you. When he asks you questions, he may be aware of information that you don’t even know. Next, many questions often do not include the entire context of the situation. You know the details of the situation, or at least what you were doing, and they do not. Investigators often confuse individuals, settings, conversations, and other key facts. While he is asking you about “X”, you may think he is asking about “Y”. Your answer will just cause further suspicion. And finally, remember that everything you say can, and will be used against you at trial. That includes those statements that are the truth, only to see skilled prosecutors twist your words and make them look like a lie.
If you are suspected of a crime, DO NOT speak with investigators or anyone in authority. Bad things happen when you talk. Instead, demand to speak with an attorney and demand an attorney be present during any questioning. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, you need an attorney who understands how investigators and interrogators operate and how to prevent you from harming your own case. Contact attorney Colby Vokey at (214)697-0274 or vokeylaw@colbyvokey.com.
And remember the advice I give to every single suspected person who faces questioning or interrogation: “If you have done something wrong, don’t make a statement. If you are innocent, for the love of God, don’t make a statement!”
http://pursuitmag.com/in-the-interview-room-preventing-false-confessions/