Protecting Human Rights in Police Custody: Findings and Proposals

In this concluding chapter, drawing on the insights of the authors of this book, I will highlight two areas that appear to be particularly important for ensuring the humane treatment of persons in police custody. First, fundamental safeguards against mistreatment must be in place and actually observed, and these safeguards should be as effective as possible. I am proposing, in particular, that an arrested person be brought before a judicial authority within hours of arrest, wherever feasible, for maximum preventive effect. Second, there is a link between the quality of professional police work and the appropriate treatment of detained persons. This is particularly true with respect to the conducting of police questioning. I will again emphasise that the investigative interviewing approach is an important instrument for improving the effectiveness of police work and, at the same time, enhancing respect for the human rights of persons in police custody. A brief outlook will conclude this chapter and the book.