Custodial interrogations of suspects and the statements and confessions that are elicited are vitally important in the preparation of criminal cases. However, to be admissible as evidence, statements and confessions must be given freely and voluntarily and with due consideration for the suspect’s right to silence and right to counsel. Therefore,law enforcement agency should ensure that all officers understand and follow applicable agency policy in order to observe due process rights of suspects and to guard against any charges of police coercion or intimidation during interrogation.

These documents provide officers with legally sound procedures for conducting custodial interrogations.