Recording a suspect’s entire interrogation provides substantial protection of the suspect’s rights as well as the rights of the police officers involved. Contrary to stated concerns, in jurisdictions that routinely record interrogations, recording has not led to a decrease in confessions or productivity. In fact, recording in these jurisdictions has resulted in more convictions and plea bargains, as well as fewer claims of police misconduct and coerced confessions. Both prosecutors and defense attorneys support mandatory recording because it captures what really happens in the interrogation room. According to a 1992 Department of Justice study, ninety-seven percent of police departments that videotape suspects statements find it to be a useful practice. . . .
