Certified Protection Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

According to investigative principles, what is the best approach to questioning?

1. A suspect is guilty until proven innocent

2. A suspect is innocent until proven guilty

3. All questions should be accusatory

4. Witnesses should not be questioned

The correct answer is: A suspect is innocent until proven guilty

The principle that a suspect is innocent until proven guilty is a fundamental aspect of legal proceedings and investigative practices. This principle protects individuals from wrongful accusations and maintains the integrity of the justice system. Emphasizing the presumption of innocence helps ensure that investigators conduct their inquiries fairly and without bias. This approach allows for a more objective analysis of the evidence and encourages a thorough investigation based on facts rather than preconceived notions of guilt. It fosters an environment where the suspect's rights are respected, and the investigation is guided by the goal of discovering the truth. This principle also serves to protect the credibility of the investigation, as it encourages investigators to remain open to various possibilities and to critically assess all evidence before drawing conclusions. By adopting this mindset, investigators can approach questioning with a focus on uncovering information rather than framing assumptions about the suspect's guilt or innocence. This ultimately leads to more reliable results and contributes to a just legal outcome.