What should be done prior to interviewing a person in custody?

Prior to interviewing a person in custody, it is essential to read the individual their rights. This action, commonly known as administering the Miranda warning, ensures that the person is fully aware of their rights, particularly the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. This is a foundational aspect of the interrogation process in law enforcement to protect the individual’s rights and ensure that any statements made during the interview are admissible in court.

Failing to provide the Miranda warning can result in any obtained statements being deemed inadmissible during legal proceedings, which undermines the integrity of the investigation and can significantly impact the outcome of a case. Therefore, reading the person's rights is not just a procedural formality; it is a critical step in upholding the principles of justice and due process.

Other actions, such as investigating their background, preparing a written report, or searching for contraband, may be important in the broader scope of an investigation, but they do not take precedence over ensuring that the individual understands their rights before any custodial interrogation begins.