Psychophysiological  Detection of Deception Examinations (PDD)
otherwise known as polygraph examinations conducted by Law
Enforcement are an important part of their investigative process. (Often
if a client “passes” the PDD examination, the criminal investigation
focuses on other suspects or an investigation is terminated.

You may determine that is in a clients best interest to submit to a Law
Enforcement PDD Examination. VanArsdale Polygraph Services
recommends the following guidelines to assist you in responding to a
Law Enforcement PDD Examination of your clients:

1.        Whenever possible have your client tested by a private PDD
Examiner with extensive Law Enforcement Experience who has availed
themselves of continuing education opportunities in the field.

2.        If you agree to a Law Enforcement PDD Examination, inform the
investigating officer about the private test and offer the opportunity for
the Law Enforcement Examiner to visit with the Private Examiner and
review the Examiner’s work product.

3.        Require the Law Enforcement PDD Examiner to use a
scientifically validated Zone Comparison Question Test technique. Multi-
faceted and Multi-issue techniques are often preferred by Law
Enforcement Examiners. These techniques are more difficult for an
“Innocent” person to pass because of the test structure and the fact that
opinions are not formed on individual questions. Fail one question, fail
the test.

Contact Van Arsdale Polygraph Services for information on validated
techniques.

4.        Require that the test be recorded. Preferably by video but audio
is acceptable. Gain a commitment that regardless of outcome, the test
will be reviewed by your expert.


5.        Advise your client if at any time during the testing process the
examiner becomes aggressive or accusatory the test should be
terminated. If the examiner does not discuss each of the questions to
be asked during the testing process, the test should be terminated. If
during the collection of data, unreviewed questions are asked, the test
should be terminated.

6.        Your client should refrain from using illegal drugs for 48 hours
prior to the test. If under a doctor’s care, all prescribed medication
should be continued unless instructed to stop by a physician. The Law
Enforcement Examiner should be informed about all medication taken.

7.        A the conclusion of the data collection, no interview should be
allowed. Oklahoma Law requires that an examinee be given the
opportunity to explain any reactions, but does not require that they do
so.  

8.        Consult with Van Arsdale Polygraph Services prior to an exam for
updated information and advice.