...human being against another but because the narrative description of the incident (1) lends itself to an investigative analysis of the words used. Researchers have concluded what experienced investigators have known intuitively for some time; that is, when most people fail to tell the truth, they will omit information, as opposed to telling an outright lie. (2) As such, they often choose words--whether for written narrative or during an interview--that camouflage or conceal the truth. Researchers concur with the assessment that the words used can and do reveal information that may be of substantive value to investigators. In addition, more often than not, the writers or speakers of these words may not realize that they could be "tipping their hands." (3) "We should accept that a large part of our linguistic behavior is subliminal, and, therefore, we may find a lot of surprises." (4)

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The analysis of someone's verbatim words involves scrutinizing structural and linguistic features to discover insight and identify areas of possible deception. It constitutes a tool to help investigators conduct thorough interviews in their quest to arrive at the truth. (5) To this end, investigators can learn to identify and capitalize on those words or phrases that people often use to camouflage or conceal their actions or activities. Because verbs comprise the principal part of speech that denotes action, they require particular attention.

WORDS THAT CONVEY CONVERSATION

Human beings continually communicate with each other through various mediums throughout the day. Therefore, if speakers or writers refer to any form of communication or conversation in their narratives, investigators need to determine the precise content and nature of that conversation, when it took place in relation to the incident under investigation, who initiated it, and whether the writer or speaker changes any words used to describe any verbal interaction.

The account of the first homicide draws investigators to, among other linguistic features, (6) the action verb talked. Whenever the writer of a narrative or the subject of an interview (7) uses a word or phrase that describes or implies some form of conversation, investigators should explore what the parties discussed. More often than not, descriptions of any form of dialogue involve action verbs, such as spoke, discussed, argued, had words, or e-mailed. Investigators also should listen and look for words or phrases that imply conversation, including we met, shot the breeze, or hooked up.

When Did the Conversation Occur?

Investigators always should remain alert to the timing or placement of any words that suggest conversation. Violent crimes do not take place in a vacuum but often are preceded by and even the result of verbal interaction between the involved parties. When the conversation took place in relation to the incident under investigation is vitally important. Investigators should strive to elicit detailed information about the dialogue and any bearing or relationship that it may have had on the crime.

The example at the beginning of this article describes a conversation between Cain and Abel ("Cain talked with Abel his brother"). The incident comes next ("Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him"). In other words, the crime was immediately preceded by Cain's talking to his brother. What Cain had to say to Abel prior to the commission of his crime proves integral to understanding the events and emotions leading up to the attack.

Who Initiated the Conversation?

Investigators should consider not only the words that convey conversation but also the person communicating them. In the case of Cain and Abel, the text ("Cain talked...

NOTE: All illustrations and photos have been removed from this article.



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