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When conducting an interview of a suspect for a reported sexual assault, what is one important step an officer should take?
Confront the suspect aggressively
Develop a timeline of the suspect's actions
Ask leading questions
Conduct the interview in public
The correct answer is: Develop a timeline of the suspect's actions
Developing a timeline of the suspect's actions is a crucial step in the investigation process, particularly in cases of sexual assault. This step helps the officer understand the sequence of events and the context surrounding the alleged crime. A well-established timeline not only aids in clarifying the suspect's whereabouts during the incident but also assists in identifying any discrepancies in their account of events. This information can be pivotal in corroborating evidence, identifying potential witnesses, and determining the validity of the suspect's narrative. The other approaches mentioned are less effective in an investigative context. Aggressively confronting the suspect could lead to an uncooperative demeanor, reducing the likelihood of obtaining reliable information. Similarly, asking leading questions may compromise the integrity of the information gathered, as it can influence the suspect's responses rather than allowing them to provide their account freely. Conducting the interview in public could hinder the suspect's comfort and willingness to share personal and sensitive details, which are often necessary for a thorough understanding of the situation.