Why is it important to interview witnesses separately?

Interviewing witnesses separately is crucial primarily to prevent collusion in testimonies. When witnesses are interviewed together, there is a risk that they may influence each other's accounts, either intentionally or unintentionally. This can lead to the creation of a shared narrative that may not accurately reflect individual observations or experiences. By interviewing them separately, investigators can obtain independent accounts, which increases the reliability and credibility of the evidence gathered. Separate interviews allow each witness to express their own perspective without being swayed by the opinions or memories of others, ultimately leading to more accurate and trustworthy testimonies. This method helps to ensure that the investigation is based on genuine, unbiased information, which is vital for establishing the truth in any case.