How can investigators ensure the reliability of a source?

Investigators can ensure the reliability of a source by assessing the source’s credibility, motive, and consistency of information. This approach involves evaluating who the source is, their background, and any potential biases that may affect their testimony or information. Understanding the credibility helps to determine if the person has the relevant expertise, experience, or reputation to provide accurate information. Examining motive is crucial because a source may have personal or financial incentives that influence what they share. Finally, analyzing the consistency of the information across multiple contexts or over time can further validate the reliability of the source.

While conducting online background checks, cross-referencing sources, and interviewing multiple witnesses are all valuable strategies in the investigative process, they focus more on secondary verification or corroboration rather than establishing the initial reliability of a single source. Assessing credibility, motive, and consistency is fundamental for upfront evaluation, which is essential for any investigative effort.