The Purpose Behind Polygraph Tests in Law Enforcement
Screening Applicants
One of the primary uses is during the hiring process. The objective is to screen applicants for any hidden behaviors or issues. These could be indicative of potential risks and liabilities. It’s far better to identify these early on, to avert problems later in a law enforcement career. This helps the hiring agency make informed decisions about candidates.
Through this evaluation, hiring agencies hope to:
- Assess Honesty: To ascertain an applicant’s candor regarding their past, including criminal activities, drug use, and any other potential areas of concern.
- Detect Risk Factors: To identify individuals who may be susceptible to corruption, misconduct, or unethical behaviors. This includes inquiries into any possible associations with unsavory characters or past criminal activities.
- Maintain Public Trust: By carefully selecting officers who are honest and truthful, agencies work to foster public confidence in the police department.
Internal Affairs Investigations
The second major application of the polygraph is within the scope of Internal Affairs investigations. When accusations of misconduct arise, the polygraph is frequently employed to find the truth.
In this role, the polygraph can:
- Investigate Misconduct Allegations: Help determine the truth when dealing with accusations of theft, corruption, or other malfeasance.
- Examine Policy Violations: To explore any breaches of department policies or regulations.
- Determine Truth in Disputes: To uncover the facts in situations where differing accounts create conflict.
Types of Queries Asked
The questions on a police officer polygraph test are strategically structured to assess an individual’s truthfulness and character. The questions themselves are divided into a few core categories. The categories below are meant to illustrate the types of questions asked in the test.
Relevant Questions
Relevant questions are the heart of the examination. They’re designed to directly address the matter under scrutiny. These queries are very specific to the case or investigation and tailored to the applicant’s background. For example, if an officer is suspected of stealing evidence from the evidence room, a relevant question would be, “Have you ever taken any item from the evidence room that was not yours?”
Control Questions
Control questions aim to gauge the examinee’s emotional response, irrespective of their truthfulness. These questions are designed to generate an emotional baseline. A common example is, “Have you ever told a lie to get out of trouble?” These are often very broad questions, with the purpose of making the test taker react in a similar manner.
Irrelevant Questions
Irrelevant questions are designed to serve as a neutral baseline. They are not meant to elicit any significant emotional response and are often simple, factual inquiries. An example would be, “Are you sitting in a chair right now?”
Pre-Test Interview
Before the examination, the polygraph examiner conducts a pre-test interview. During this phase:
- The examiner explains the nature of the questions and test protocol.
- The examinee is given the opportunity to clarify any answers, offer explanations, or admit to anything they may be guilty of.
- The importance of complete honesty and cooperation is emphasized, setting the tone for the test.
Sample Questions and Categories: Digging Deeper
The questions on a police officer polygraph test are structured into several categories, and the questions can vary depending on the department and the specific purpose of the test. The categories are described below, along with examples of the types of questions that may be asked.
Background and Employment History
This category assesses the applicant’s history and past behavior.
- Criminal Activity: “Have you ever committed a crime for which you were not apprehended?” “Have you ever been involved in the sale or purchase of illegal drugs?” “Have you ever committed an act of violence against another person?”
- Illegal Drug Use: “Have you ever used illegal drugs?” “Have you used drugs since becoming a police officer?” “Have you used illegal drugs in the past six months?”
- Financial Misconduct: “Have you ever stolen from an employer?” “Have you ever falsified records for financial gain?”
- Honesty on Previous Jobs: “Have you ever been fired from a job for dishonesty?” “Have you ever been disciplined for not following procedures?”
Integrity and Ethics
These questions relate directly to the core values expected of police officers.
- Accepting Bribes or Gratuities: “Have you ever accepted a bribe in exchange for a favor?” “Have you ever accepted gratuities from a person or business?”
- Abuse of Authority: “Have you ever used your authority as a police officer for personal gain?” “Have you ever made threats to intimidate another person?”
- Making False Statements: “Have you ever lied on an official report?” “Have you ever given false testimony in court?”
- Associations with Criminals: “Do you associate with known criminals?” “Have you ever provided information to a criminal for monetary gain?”
Personal Conduct
Questions relating to personal behavior are asked, which includes a wide range of items.
- Sexual Misconduct or Harassment: “Have you ever engaged in unwanted sexual advances towards another person?” “Have you ever been accused of sexual harassment?”
- Gambling Problems: “Do you have a gambling problem?” “Have you ever gambled with funds that weren’t yours?”
- Substance Abuse (Current or Past): “Are you currently using illegal drugs?” “Have you ever sought help or treatment for substance abuse?”
- Mental Health Issues (if relevant): “Have you ever been diagnosed with a mental health condition that could impact your job performance?” “Have you ever taken medication for depression or anxiety?”
Specific Case-Related Questions (for investigations)
These questions will be tailored to the situation and event under investigation.
- Regarding a Specific Event: “Did you take the missing money from the safe?” “Did you witness the assault on the victim?”
- Actions or Statements: “Did you threaten the suspect during the interview?” “Did you make false statements to the District Attorney’s office?”
Preparing for a Police Polygraph Test: Keys to Success
Navigating a Police Officer Polygraph Test can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to expect and following certain guidelines can help.
- Honesty is Paramount: The single most critical piece of advice is to be completely honest. Avoid fabricating stories. This is the foundation of a successful outcome.
- Understand the Questions: If possible, understand the questions beforehand. Some departments or legal counsel may be able to give you an idea of what questions will be asked. Ask your lawyer for advice.
- Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and try to remain calm and composed. Remember, the test measures physiological responses, and anxiety can affect the results.
- Answer Clearly: Respond with concise, straightforward answers. Avoid giving long, complicated explanations unless asked.
- Don’t Try to “Beat” the Test: The goal is to be truthful, not to outsmart the polygraph.
- Seek Legal Counsel: If you have any concerns or questions about the test, consult with an attorney.
Limitations and Controversies
The polygraph test is a tool, and like any tool, it has limitations and has created a controversy. It is important to understand what the examination is and isn’t.
- Accuracy Rates: There are varying opinions on the accuracy of polygraph tests. Some studies claim high accuracy rates, while others show a wider margin of error. Results can be influenced by many factors.
- Psychological Factors: Stress, nervousness, and other emotional states can impact results. A truthful person may appear deceptive simply because they are anxious or worried about the situation.
- Legal Admissibility: In most courtrooms, polygraph results are not admissible as evidence. This is in part due to the inconsistent accuracy rates and potential for manipulation.
- Alternative Methods: Many agencies combine the polygraph with other investigative strategies, such as background checks, financial reviews, and psychological evaluations, to get a more comprehensive assessment.
Conclusion
In the realm of law enforcement, integrity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation upon which public trust is built. Police Officer Polygraph Test Questions serve as a vital mechanism for upholding these standards, assisting law enforcement agencies in evaluating candidates and investigating potential misconduct. The questions, carefully crafted to assess honesty, ethics, and personal conduct, reflect the critical demands placed on those who protect and serve.
As the debate surrounding the accuracy and reliability of polygraph tests continues, law enforcement agencies are increasingly exploring a multifaceted approach to ensuring integrity. From robust background checks and psychological evaluations to ongoing training and supervision, police departments are implementing comprehensive strategies to identify, promote, and maintain ethical standards among their ranks.
Finally, the commitment to honesty and integrity must extend beyond the test room and permeate every aspect of a law enforcement officer’s career. Remember that truth and doing the right thing are at the heart of the profession.
