Which is the best way to record an interrogation?

• A. Handwritten notes
• B. Digital audio visual
• C. Written transcript with no audio
• D. Dictation to assistant

Answer: (B)

Recording an interrogation with digital audio-visual equipment is the best approach because it creates a complete, verifiable record of both what was said and how it was said. The video captures nonverbal cues, demeanor, and the interview environment, which helps assess credibility and confirms that rights were respected and properly explained. An audio-only recording can miss important context from body language, and a written transcript without audio omits tone, emphasis, pauses, and other nuances that can change meaning. Handwritten notes tend to be incomplete and subjective, and they’re easy to overlook or misinterpret, especially under stress or time pressure. Dictation to an assistant introduces potential transcription errors and smells like third-party involvement, which can raise questions about accuracy and chain of custody. Overall, digital audio-visual recording provides a more reliable, defendable documentary record and aligns with best practices for interrogation documentation.