Beyond a Reasonable Doubt is a podcast for interviewers: investigators, law enforcement officers, policymakers, scholars, journalists and business or HR executives. It provides listeners with knowledge, historical background and tools to master Investigative Interviewing, a key component in reducing doubt, gathering strong evidence, safeguarding people from miscarriages of justice, and nurturing trust within communities. It also sheds light on a collective path towards a better world, guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #16. RSSVERIFY
In Ireland, suspects have been recorded on video since 1997. Interviewers are still required to write down everything by hand at the same time. Dr Adrian Gates spent his career as the national lead on investigative interview training in An Garda Síochána — and his doctoral research has now quantified the cost of that contradiction. In this episode of Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, Dr Ivar Fahsing speaks with Dr Adrian Gates about his journey from confession-focused detective to Ireland's foremost advocate for the Enhanced Cognitive Interview; the moment a Detective Superintendent asked him, in front of the assistant commissioner, 'Are you telling me we have been doing it wrong all this time?' — and what he said; and the findings from his research: an accuracy rate of 39%, 4,481 omitted items across 15 interviews, and a process in which interviewers are actively stopping people from talking in order to keep up with their own pen.
Recorded live at the Davidhorn Police Interview Summit 2026 in Manchester, Dr Ivar Fahsing speaks with Vasylyna Yavorska — Ukrainian lawyer, criminal justice reformer, and CEO of JUST Group — about what it means to try to transform a criminal justice system in the middle of a war. Vasylyna has coordinated Ukraine's national team of investigative interviewing experts since 2017. In this conversation, she talks candidly about the challenge of shifting practitioners away from confession-focused thinking, the structural barriers to scaling investigative interviewing across a large and complex justice system, and the moment in March 2022 — Kyiv still partly occupied — when her team was asked to develop guidelines for interviewing prisoners of war.
In this episode of Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, host Dr Ivar Fahsing speaks with Therese Maria Rytter, international human rights lawyer and outgoing Vice-President of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), about the critical intersection of legal safeguards, investigative interviewing, and the prevention of torture across Europe. After nearly 12 years with the CPT and 30 years dedicated to protecting human rights internationally, Ms Rytter brings unparalleled insight into what actually prevents torture and ill-treatment in police custody, prisons, and other detention settings across the 46 member states of the Council of Europe. As Director of Prevention and Accountability at DIGNITY – Danish Institute Against Torture, and co-author of the landmark Mendez Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering, she represents the bridge between international human rights standards and practical implementation in criminal justice systems. The conversation reveals the CPT's unique and powerful mandate: conducting surprise visits to police stations, prisons, and psychiatric hospitals throughout Europe, sometimes arriving at midnight on Friday nights when cells are fullest. Therese Maria Rytter describes how expert delegations - including lawyers, forensic doctors, psychiatrists, and former police commissioners - spend two weeks in each country, sitting inside cells to speak with detainees, examining injuries, reviewing CCTV footage, and assessing use-of-force records. This unprecedented access allows the CPT to make concrete, evidence-based recommendations tailored to each country's specific context.
What shapes an investigator's mindset — and does it matter more than their training? In this episode, Dr. Ivar Fahsing speaks with Ahmet Demirden, criminal justice academic and former Toronto Police Service officer, about the psychology behind investigative interviewing practice. Drawing on two decades of experience across Canada, Turkey, and international training contexts, Ahmet Demirden introduces regulatory focus theory as a lens for understanding why officers interview the way they do — and why knowledge alone is rarely enough to change behaviour. The conversation covers the gap between training and performance, the role of organisational culture and required drivers, the legal complexities of the Turkish inquisitorial system, and the emerging potential of AI and simulation technology to provide the feedback mechanisms that policing has long lacked.
Dr Ivar Fahsing speaks with Dr Julia Korkman — psychologist, researcher, and one of the leading voices in legal psychology in the Nordic region — about what investigative interviewing looks like in Finland: what works, what doesn't, and why the gaps matter. In this episode: - Why human memory is the core material of criminal justice — and why so few professionals are trained in it - How the desire to help children speak can introduce the very errors it's meant to prevent - The Kailinna wrongful conviction case and the cost of confirmation bias - Cultural humility in cross-border and multilingual interviews — from Finland's sauna culture to collective societies in Southeast Asia - What a nationwide survey of Finnish police officers revealed about knowledge of interviewing methods - Why Norway's shift to recording succeeded — and what Finland can learn from it - How AI is being used to generate alternative hypotheses in child abuse investigations - Remote hearings, automated transcription, and the future of technology in investigative interviewing Guest: Dr Julia Korkman, Docent in Psychology, Åbo Akademi University Host: Dr Ivar Fahsing
Every major interviewing framework - PEACE, KREATIV, ORBIT - distils to the same essentials: stay nice, ask good questions, and listen. So why does confession-driven culture remain so deeply embedded, even in systems that have formally adopted investigative interviewing? In this episode of Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, host Børge Hansen speaks with two leading members of iIIRG - the International Investigative Interviewing Research Group - about what actually makes reform stick, and what keeps pulling it back.
Denmark implemented investigative interviewing standards in 2015, yet officers were convicted of coercion in 2021. Thomas Skou Roer reveals why and what's next. In this candid and thought-provoking episode of Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, host Ivar Fahsing speaks with Thomas Skou Roer, associate professor at University College Copenhagen and former Danish criminal detective with 18 years of service, about the complex realities of implementing investigative interviewing standards in Denmark—and why having good standards doesn't guarantee good practice.
What does it take to implement investigative interviewing across an entire nation's criminal justice system? In this episode, recorded in Hua Hin, Thailand, Dr Ivar Fahsing speaks with Ms. Santanee Ditsayabut — senior prosecutor at the Office of the Attorney General of Thailand and Director of the Secretariat of the Nitivajra Institute — about Thailand's landmark efforts to embed ethical, evidence-based interviewing practices across its justice system. Santanee shares the story of Thailand's PEACE Program Informity: a multi-year, multi-agency initiative bringing together prosecutors, police, special investigators from the DSI, judges, and officers from across government. She speaks candidly about the challenges of changing practitioner mindset, overcoming the myth that investigative interviewing is too time-consuming, and the critical role of policy-level support in sustaining real change. The conversation explores how Thai cultural values of respect and dignity align naturally with the ethos of ethical interviewing — and how understanding memory science and cognitive bias transforms the way practitioners approach evidence gathering. Santanee also discusses the important role of judges in evaluating evidence accurately, and why legislative reform may be needed to support long-term implementation. The episode marks a historic milestone: Thailand is certifying its first national PEACE trainers and champions, positioning the country as a leader in investigative interviewing across Asia. In this episode: Thailand's PEACE Program Informity and how it brings the full justice chain together Why investigative interviewing must be understood as a skill, not a theory Confirmation bias, tunnel vision, and the science of memory The role of judges in evidence evaluation — and what happens when they lack that knowledge Building sustainable change by training future policymakers alongside practitioners How technology, including recording and AI transcription, supports implementation Thailand certifying its first national PEACE trainers Beyond a Reasonable Doubt is the podcast from Davidhorn, exploring investigative interviewing and digital evidence with experts from around the world.
Discover how Norwegian police are transforming investigative work through innovation and artificial intelligence. Join host Børge Hansen (CEO, Davidhorn) in conversation with three experts from Norway's law enforcement community: Kjeld Hendrik Helland-Hansen and Oddvar Moldestad (Forensic Investigators, Western Police District) and Bente Skattør (Senior Advisor ICT and Innovation, Norwegian Police). This episode examines the integration of AI in investigative interviewing, advances in crime scene investigations, and the critical importance of accountability when deploying AI tools. The speakers discuss challenges in keeping pace with criminal innovation, the necessity for operational efficiency, and how international collaboration strengthens policing practices. They also address the cultural shift required within police organisations to embrace innovation while navigating bureaucratic complexities.
In this episode, we speak with Carly McAuley and Maxime Cole from Triangle, a UK-based organisation specialising in investigative interviewing of children and vulnerable adults. Carly McAuley and Maxime Cole shared with us Triangle's approach to investigative interviewing with children and vulnerable adults. The conversation explores how very young children - even two and three-year-olds - can provide reliable, court-admissible evidence when interviewed using appropriate techniques. Triangle's expertise challenges long-held assumptions about children's capabilities and demonstrates that the quality of evidence obtained depends entirely on the adult interviewer's communication skills, not the child's inherent abilities.
** LIVE at Davidhorn Police Interview Summit 2025 ** This conversation explores the nuances of interviewing techniques in law enforcement, focusing on the Orbit model and its relationship with the PEACE model. Prof. Laurence Alison and Dr. Ivar Fahsing discuss the importance of evidence-based practices, cultural influences on police interviewing, and the evolution of techniques over time. They reflect on their early careers and the challenges faced in implementing effective interviewing strategies across different countries. This conversation delves into the evolution of investigative psychology, focusing on decision-making processes within law enforcement, the importance of training and certification for detectives, and the potential role of technology and AI in enhancing interviewing techniques. The speakers reflect on their experiences and research, emphasising the need for better systems and training to improve investigative outcomes.
This conversation explores the development and impact of the Barnahus model in Iceland, a pioneering approach to child protection and justice for victims of sexual abuse. Bragi Guðbrandsson shares insights from his 25-year involvement in establishing Barnahus, detailing the challenges faced in the Icelandic child protection system, the innovative solutions implemented, and the model's influence on child advocacy across Europe.
Dr. Ivar Fahsing chats about the transformative world of investigative interviewing with Prof. Eric Shepherd, highlighting its profound evolution. They explore the global influence of Mendez Centers, advocating for ethical interviewing techniques that challenge traditional, confession-focused police practices. Emphasising the importance of respect, empathy, and understanding cultural differences, the discussion reveals how these elements are crucial in enhancing the rapport and effectiveness of interviews. Prof. Shepherd critiques the practical problem-solving approach in policing, which often prioritises expediency over ethics, and underscores the necessity of a conversation-driven interview process founded on mutual respect and ethical integrity. The episode also touches on the impact of organisational culture on interviewing techniques, the significant effects of witness interview quality on suspect interviews, and the urgent need for research on the role of legal advisors and the strategic disclosure of evidence. This insightful conversation marks a pivotal shift towards more respectful, effective, and ethically grounded investigative practices.
In this conversation, Professor Dave Walsh and Dr. Ivar Fahsing discuss the ImpleMendez initiative, which aims to implement the Mendez Principles in investigative interviewing practices globally. He highlights the importance of collaboration across various disciplines, the evolution of interviewing techniques, and the significance of reflective practice and ongoing training. The conversation also touches on cultural considerations in interviewing and the future of investigative interviewing, emphasising the need for a standardised approach to improve outcomes in the criminal justice system.
In this episode of the “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” podcast, Dr. Patrick Tidmarsh discusses the complexities of investigating sexual crimes, emphasising the importance of understanding offenders, victim experiences, and the need for effective interviewing techniques. He highlights the shift in policing practices over the years, the detrimental effects of victim blaming, and the critical role of listening in investigations. The conversation also touches on grooming behaviors of offenders, the misconceptions surrounding false reporting, and the global challenges faced in policing sexual offenses. Ultimately, the episode advocates for better training and a more empathetic approach to handling victims' stories.
This conversation between Dr. Ivar Fahsing and Investigative Interviewing legend - Prof. Ray Bull, explores the evolution of police interviewing techniques. Prof. Bull focuses his influence on moving away from “common sense” interviewing, implementing the PEACE method and its impact on police training and cultural awareness in the UK and throughout Europe. The discussion highlights understanding the importance of cognitive empathy, rapport building, and non-coercive methods in getting information from suspects and witnesses. Prof. Bull reflects on the challenges and acceptance of these techniques within policing, the need for training and understanding in diverse cultural contexts.
In this conversation, Mark Fallon shares his extensive background in investigative interviewing and counterterrorism, detailing his experiences with the NCIS and the impact of 9/11 on interrogation practices. He discusses the ethical implications of interrogation techniques, particularly in the context of the Enhanced Interrogation Techniques (EIT) program and emphasises the importance of research in developing effective interviewing methods. Mr. Fallon also reflects on his book “Unjustifiable Means”, which critiques the use of torture and advocates for humane treatment of detainees. He highlights the need for cultural shifts within law enforcement to embrace science-based methods and the importance of maintaining integrity in policing.
Fanny Aboagye, Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Police Force, discusses the UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing launch and its impact on investigations in Africa in particular. The Manual emphasises the importance of obtaining accurate information through ethical interviewing techniques and avoiding coercive methods. A key takeaway is the need for change in how interviews are conducted, focusing on building trust and gathering reliable information. Fanny highlights the importance of management support and training in implementing these changes. She also discusses the role of gender in investigative interviewing, noting that women may have a natural advantage in non-confrontational, communicative interviewing styles. Despite challenges, Fanny remains optimistic about The Manual's impact and the potential for positive change in policing practices.
In this conversation, Børge Hansen interviews Becky Milne, a Professor of Forensic Psychology, about her journey in the field and her work on investigative interviewing. Becky shares how her experiences in Ethiopia and visiting the United Nations inspired her to work for society and give a voice to those who need it. She discusses the importance of collaboration between academics and practitioners in developing effective interviewing techniques. Becky also highlights the need for proper training and technology, such as recording interviews, to improve the accuracy and reliability of information obtained. She emphasises the importance of addressing vulnerability in interviewing, particularly in cases of sexual offences and war crimes.
Børge Hansen, the podcast host and CEO of Davidhorn takes us into the world of human rights, justice, and the powerful practice of Investigative Interviewing with Gisle Kvanvig from Norwegian Center of Human Rights . Together, they'll talk about the release of the Manual on Investigative Interviewin for Criminal Invastigations , how this work supports a very important goal - the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #16 . This goal is all about making societies and institutions peaceful, just, and strong. Join us as we learn more about the global work for human rights, the importance of fair, efficient and transparent policing, and the new standard for Investigative Interviewing created by United Nation. We're here to connect the dots between research and real-world action, aiming for a future where everyone gets to be heard.
