Policy

Truth verification examinations (polygraphs) shall be used as an investigative aid in criminal investigations, and are not designed or intended to be used as a substitute for other techniques.
Procedure
1. Polygraph
  1. The agent requesting the examination shall complete the request for polygraph examination form and submit it to his supervisor.
  2. Section Commanders shall approve or disapprove requests for polygraph examinations.
  3. Section Commanders shall designate the agency that will perform the polygraph examination, based on current arrangements, with providers of this service.
  4. Pursuant to approval of the request, the agent shall contact the designated polygraph service provided and make the necessary appointment.
  5. It shall be the agent's responsibility to ensure that the subject to be tested is informed of the polygraph appointment time and place. It shall also be the agent's responsibility to inform the polygraphist of appointment cancellations.
  6. A person under the influence of alcohol, sedatives, opiates, or suffering from physical pain, severe cold or respiratory disorder shall not ordinarily be considered to be in a fit condition for an examination.
  7. The agent shall avoid disclosure to the subject of any details or facts established during the investigation.
  8. Facts concerning the crime, which could only be known to the perpetrator, shall never be told to the subject, news media, or general public. These facts could be of vital importance to the polygraphist in test and question formulation.
Rule
1. Truth verification examinations shall not be offered to subjects as an investigative ploy, with no intention to follow through if the subject happens to agree.
2. Examiners must be graduates of institutions providing training for this purpose.

	Lakewood Police Department Policy and Procedure Truth Verification Examinations in Criminal Investigation		Effective Date: 12/30/2016
	Policy Number: PP-8021 - Truth Verification Examinations in Criminal Investigation