What is key when interviewing a vulnerable individual?

When interviewing a vulnerable individual, the most critical factor is often to ensure their safety and comfort, which includes separating them from the suspect. This separation helps to create an environment where the individual feels secure and less intimidated, allowing them to share information openly without fear of retribution or pressure from the person in question. Establishing a safe distance from the suspect can help alleviate anxiety and foster trust during the interview process.

While encouraging the individual to speak freely, using a standard interview protocol, and providing a safe space are all important aspects of the interviewing process, they are secondary to the necessity of ensuring the vulnerable individual's immediate safety from potential threats posed by the suspect. By prioritizing separation from the suspect, law enforcement can create a conducive environment for effective communication and gathering accurate information.