The primary difference between an interview and an interrogation lies in their formality and purpose regarding suspected criminal activity. While both methods are used to gather information, the interview is an informal procedure, whereas the interrogation is formally questioning a person with information about a suspected crime.
Key Distinction
According to the provided reference, the core difference is the level of formality and the context. An interview is typically a less formal interaction aimed at gathering information broadly, which could be about a variety of topics. An interrogation, on the other hand, is a formal process specifically focused on questioning someone who may have information related to a suspected crime.
Think of it this way:
| Feature | Interview | Interrogation |
|---|---|---|
| Formality | Informal procedure | Formal questioning |
| Context | Broad information gathering | Specifically about a suspected crime |
| Purpose | Obtaining information | Obtaining information (specifically about a crime) |
Practical Example
A practical example highlighting the difference is provided in the reference:
- Arson investigators must interview people to accurately recreate the fire they are examining. This is an informal process of gathering perspectives and facts from witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the scene or events leading up to the fire. It's part of understanding the overall picture, not necessarily focused on proving guilt during the initial phase.
In contrast, an interrogation would occur if investigators had reason to suspect a specific person committed arson and formally questioned them about their involvement in the crime.
Essentially, the formality and the specific focus on a suspected crime are what distinguishes a formal interrogation from a general, informal interview, even though both seek information.
