What is a best practice when interacting with fearful witnesses?

Emphasizing politeness and encouraging participation is vital when interacting with fearful witnesses. Witnesses who are scared may feel vulnerable and apprehensive about sharing information that could be crucial to an investigation. By being polite, the interviewer creates a safer and more supportive environment, which can help alleviate some of the witness's fears.

Encouraging participation is equally important because it reassures the witness that their input is valued and that they play a critical role in the investigative process. This can foster a sense of collaboration, making the witness more likely to open up and share information, ultimately supporting a more thorough and effective investigation.

Overall, a calm and respectful approach not only helps witnesses feel more at ease but also facilitates clearer communication, leading to better outcomes for both the witnesses and the investigative team.