If law enforcement wants to speak with you about a crime, do not assume you can talk your way out of it. Whether you are completely innocent or think you can "clear things up," talking to the police without an attorney is almost always a grave mistake.
Police investigators in South Carolina are extensively trained in interrogation methods designed to extract confessions or damaging statements, even from innocent people. One of the most widely used techniques is the Reid Interrogation Technique, a method that has been in practice for decades and has contributed to numerous wrongful convictions.
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we have over 20 years of experience defending people in law enforcement investigations and criminal cases. If the police want to talk to you, you should immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact an attorney. We accept cases throughout South Carolina, including Lexington, Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston. To schedule a free consultation, call (803) 359-3301.
Understanding the Reid Interrogation Technique
The Reid Technique is the most commonly used interrogation method by law enforcement in South Carolina and across the country. It is a psychologically manipulative approach designed to break down a suspect’s resistance and elicit confessions—even from those who are innocent.
This method is typically broken down into three key stages:
- Fact Analysis – Investigators gather background information and evidence about the case and suspect before the interrogation. This allows them to craft an approach tailored to each person.
- Behavioral Assessment – Before the formal interrogation begins, officers will often have an informal “pre-interview” to evaluate how a suspect reacts to certain questions or accusations.
- Interrogation – Once the suspect is in an interrogation room, officers use a series of psychological tactics to get them to make incriminating statements or confessions.
Some of the most dangerous aspects of the Reid Technique include:
- Minimization and Maximization – Investigators may downplay the severity of the crime or suggest that confessing will result in a lighter sentence. On the other hand, they may also exaggerate evidence or the consequences of remaining silent.
- False Evidence Ploy – Police are legally allowed to lie during interrogations. They may falsely claim they have DNA, fingerprints, eyewitnesses, or other evidence that proves guilt—even when no such evidence exists.
- Good Cop, Bad Cop – Officers may alternate between being aggressive and sympathetic to create a false sense of trust. This tactic is used to manipulate suspects into making damaging statements.
- Isolation and Pressure – Suspects are often left alone for long periods before or during questioning, making them feel vulnerable, anxious, and desperate to end the interrogation.
Why Talking to the Police Is So Dangerous
If you are accused or suspected of a crime, the police investigator questioning you has likely done hundreds, if not thousands, of interrogations over the course of their career. This might be the only time in your life you have ever been in this situation, but for the investigator, it is just another day at work.
The system is designed to be an entirely unfair playing field. Police have extensive training in interrogation tactics, and they use proven psychological methods to control the conversation and get the answers they want.
Many people mistakenly believe that as long as they don’t confess to a crime, they have nothing to worry about. However, this is not true. You do not have to confess for your words to be used against you. Any statements you make—even seemingly harmless ones—can be twisted, taken out of context, or used to create inconsistencies that make you look guilty.
What You Should Do If the Police Want to Talk to You
If law enforcement asks you to come in for questioning, do not go alone. If they call or show up at your home or workplace, do not answer any questions.
Instead, you should say:
"I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want to speak to my attorney."
Once you have invoked your rights, stop talking. Do not try to explain yourself, clear up misunderstandings, or tell your side of the story. Even innocent people can make mistakes under pressure.
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we represent people accused or suspected of crimes in Lexington, Columbia, Greenville, Charleston, and throughout South Carolina. We will immediately intervene on your behalf, protect your rights, and handle all communications with law enforcement.
Get Legal Help Before It’s Too Late
The moment police ask to speak with you, you are already in danger. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney to guide you through the process and protect your future.
We offer free consultations and can help you understand your options. Call us today at (803) 359-3301 to schedule an appointment.