Combining Science & Experience
RESEARCH
The overarching goal of Dr. Eastwood's research is to use psychological science to improve investigative interviewing practices. Below are listed his main programs of research and his CV.
Improving Interviewee Recall
The ability to gather detailed and accurate accounts from interviewees is vital for the successful resolution of law enforcement investigations. Investigators are in need of interviewing tactics that are both science-based and ethical. Dr. Eastwood has assessed the effectiveness of various interviewing procedures - such as sketching - in increasing the amount and quality of recall from interviewees.
Comprehension of Interrogation Rights
Individuals in Canada that are detained by the police and facing an interrogation are afforded several legal rights for their protection. Legislation and case law has dictated that detainees must understand these rights fully in order for any subsequent disclosure to be admissible in court - meaning that comprehension of interrogation rights is important both for detainees and police organizations. Dr. Eastwood has taken important strides toward identifying ways to increase the comprehensibility of interrogation rights.
Alibi Generation & Assessment
An initial step in many law enforcement investigations is to ask potential suspects to provide an account of their whereabouts during the time the crime took place (i.e., provide an alibi). The ability of investigators to assess the veracity of alibis effectively is crucial to resolving cases successfully and avoiding miscarriages of justice. Dr. Eastwood is measuring various aspects of the alibi assessment process, as well as assessing the ability of innocent suspects to generate believable alibis.