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

What type of interview allows interviewing persons in the area surrounding a crime scene?

1. Casual interview

2. Field interview

3. Canvass interview

4. Structured interview

The correct answer is: Canvass interview

The correct choice is a canvass interview, as it specifically involves systematically questioning individuals in the vicinity of a crime scene. This method is employed to gather information from potential witnesses or community members who may have seen or heard something relevant to the incident. Canvassing can help law enforcement collect crucial details that may aid in the investigation. In this interview type, officers typically visit residences and businesses around the crime scene, asking open-ended questions to encourage witnesses to share any relevant observations or experiences. This proactive approach often compensates for potential witnesses who may not come forward voluntarily. While casual interviews could involve informal conversations with individuals, they lack the structured approach needed for gathering critical information effectively. Field interviews can take place in various contexts, not necessarily tied to crime scenes. Structured interviews are systematic and organized but are typically used in more formal settings, often involving predetermined questions aimed at a specific individual or group rather than canvassing an area.