What should an officer do while a witness answers a new question in an interview?

Listening completely without interrupting is essential during a witness interview for several reasons. First, allowing the witness to finish their thoughts helps gather comprehensive information without biasing their answers or overwhelming them. Interruptions can lead to misunderstood statements or critical details being missed, and they may also hinder the witness's willingness to share information freely.

Moreover, effective listening can foster a more trusting atmosphere, encouraging the witness to be more open and honest. It's important for officers to create an environment where witnesses feel comfortable sharing their experiences, as this can lead to more accurate and detailed accounts of events.

While taking notes or offering reassurance may seem helpful, these actions can detract from the officer's ability to fully comprehend the witness's testimony. Therefore, prioritizing complete attention during a witness's response is a crucial aspect of effective interviewing techniques.