During a gathering of information, what is the main objective of an interview?

The main objective of an interview in the context of gathering information is to obtain facts about the incident. This involves collecting detailed and accurate information from a witness or involved party to create a clearer understanding of what transpired. The success of an investigation often hinges on the facts that can be gathered during interviews. This can include eyewitness accounts, descriptions of events, and relevant circumstances surrounding the incident.

The factual information obtained during an interview can provide a foundation for determining the next steps in an investigation, guiding officers on how to address the situation based on evidence rather than assumptions. This process is crucial in building a comprehensive picture of the events and ensuring that subsequent actions are rooted in what is known rather than what is hypothesized.