0168 The Role of Alertness (vs. Fatigue) in the Performance of Professional Criminal Investigators

Abstract Introduction Investigative interviews and interrogations are a critical component of official inquiries. However, how levels alertness (vs. fatigue) the interviewer impact performance during investigative or their outcomes is unclear. To this end, current effort aimed to estimate objectively estimated on (1) deception detection across true false alibi statements (2) real-life conducted by officers in field. Methods achieve first goal, sets 8 video-recorded (each from different individual, with half being true) were presented 26 law-enforcement professionals (average age 42, two-thirds male). Prior judging truthfulness, they completed 5-min Psychomotor Vigilance Test rated sleepiness. second another study tracked daily fluctuations among investigators predict experiences actual field interviews. Fifty (mean 75% male) wore sleep-activity tracker (Readiband) for two weeks while keeping daily-diary For each interview, indicated (a) well established rapport subject, (b) much resistance encountered, (c) maintained own focus composure, (d) overall utility evidence obtained. Readiband-generated estimates fatigue used interview outcomes. Results First, when alibis’ credibility, officer’s was strong predictor lie-detection performance. Specifically, who better at detecting more alert, faster reaction times (r = .52) fewer attentional lapses -.67). This largely accounted stronger skepticism lies. Second, Investigators field-interviewing consistently reported difficulties maintaining composure days lower alertness, as subject less rapport. Conclusion The findings suggest criminal (and underlying sleep disruption) an important factor unfold. implicate adequate modifiable fitness investigators. Support (if any) Federal Bureau Investigation Contract #15F06718C000253