North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a type of interview?

1. Field interview

2. Interrogation

3. Discussion interview

4. Canvass interview

The correct answer is: Discussion interview

The designation of "discussion interview" as not being a recognized type of interview in law enforcement is rooted in the commonly accepted terminology used within investigative practices. In policing contexts, interviews can be classified into various established types, including field interviews, interrogations, and canvass interviews. Field interviews involve the questioning of individuals in the field, often in relation to suspicious activities or specific incidents. Interrogation refers to the formal questioning of a suspect who is believed to be involved in a crime, focusing on obtaining a confession or critical information. Canvass interviews are typically conducted by officers in a specific area, seeking information from residents or those in proximity to an incident, which helps gather leads or witness accounts. However, the term "discussion interview" is not a standard term widely recognized in law enforcement practice. While informal discussions might occur in various contexts, they do not fit the structured formats and protocols associated with the other types. This distinction highlights the importance of recognizing established procedures and terminology within law enforcement operations.