Take the test or not?

[Guest]

Recently my employer was broken into and the loss prevention manager told me that I may be summoned to a polygraph test. He also told me that I was a suspect and that polygraphs absolutley don't lie. He thinks he knows all, he says that he knows all the polygraph administrators around here and they are all real good. Now, heres my concern, since this is a criminal polygraph interrigation, should I submit to the test? I am really scared of the results, especially since he told me that I am a suspect. I know that I am innocent, but I dont want to base my innocence on a non proven test that is so controversial to begin with. If I refuse, I don't know what will happen. Whats the worst that could happen? I dont know what to do, and the test wont be for at least another week yet. I have already been reading the book on this site. Thanks for all your help!

[George W. Maschke]

Polygraphs may not lie (they are but lifeless instruments), but polygraphers most certainly do, and their opinions regarding whether a person has spoken the truth or not have no scientific basis.

Your employer may be legally entitled to ask you to submit to a polygraph interrogation, because the Employee Polygraph Protection Act includes an exemption in the case where an employee is reasonably suspected of a crime. The Act also sets forth conditions that the employer must meet.

I suggest that you consult with an attorney who is familiar with labor law regarding your options. If you are a member of a labor union, your union representative may be able to assist you. Although you could refuse to submit to the polygraph "test," you may face retaliation for doing so.

If you do agree to submit to a polygraph interrogation, I suggest that you refuse to sign any waiver of liability that the polygrapher may ask you to sign. You want to keep open your option to sue him if he falsely accuses you of deception.

[Propoly]

Take the test. If you know that you haven't done anything, there should be no need for you to worry, and you will pass it. At least your employer didn't sugar coat anything. He/she was honest with you when they told you up front, that you are a suspect.

[beech trees]

Take the test. If you know that you haven't done anything, there should be no need for you to worry, and you will pass it. At least your employer didn't sugar coat anything. He/she was honest with you when they told you up front, that you are a suspect.

Don't take the test. You have an absolute right under the Fifth and Fourth Amendments to the US Constitution to avoid self-incrimination. You also have certain rights as stipulated by the EMPLOYEE POLYGRAPH PROTECTION ACT to decline a polygraph and not run the risk of retaliation. Your employer as well as your loss prevention manager are attempting to dupe you when they say 'polygraphs absolutley don't lie'. If you are truly named as a suspect decline further communication with them about the matter and hire a lawyer IMMEDIATELY.