Report page 44

Explain your role, the purpose of the interview, and next steps using plain language.

Be clear, direct, and truthful, and clarify any misconceptions.

Maintain a calm, respectful demeanor for the entire interaction, not just while asking questions.

Prepare strategies for responding to extreme or emotional responses (e.g., aggression, sadness, or silence).

Invite the individual to provide their perspective. Be respectful and patient if they are not interested in speaking at first.

Offer realistic choices during the interview, when possible. The more the individual feels in control of how the interview time is spent, the more they may want to talk.

Use the time to explore the individual’s interests, relationships, past experiences, future plans, concerns, and coping skills.

Provide an opportunity for the individual to suggest ways they can be supported in order to prevent the situation from escalating further.

BTAUs can maintain a positive rapport with individuals of concern while also establishing firm and professional boundaries around public safety.

For example, a statement such as, “We are concerned that you might hurt someone, and we want to work with you to figure out a better way forward,” communicates an expectation for safe and nonviolent behavior and demonstrates a willingness to provide support. Approaches like this can help to dissuade someone from considering violence and create further opportunity for rapport building.

If officer safety allows, interviews with individuals of concern should be conducted face-to-face in order to observe nonverbal cues and physical reactions to questions.

If conducted at the individual’s residence, officers will have an opportunity to observe the individual’s living conditions and home environment.

At the conclusion of the interview, the individual may be advised of next steps and any lawful requirements they must adhere to (e.g., if they are the subject of a restraining order).

BTAUs should consult with their legal counsel to determine if an interview will take place in police custody and if the individual needs to be informed of their constitutional (“Miranda”) rights against self-incrimination.