This research study aims to explore the trends in the use of appropriate adults (AAs) for persons with mental disabilities (PMDs) during law enforcement investigation interviews in Singapore and examine the profile of PMDs who were supported by AAs through the investigation process. AAs play a vital role in facilitating communication and providing emotional support to PMDs during investigation interviews.
A descriptive analysis was conducted on data collected from 2016 to 2019.
The findings of the study indicate a growing demand for AA services to support PMDs with some variations across different geographical regions. Approximately three-quarters of all completed interviews supported PMDs who were suspects/accused. Interviewees who received AA support were largely Chinese, male, in their adolescent or early adulthood years and had an intellectual disability. More than half of the interviews supported by AAs involved offences that were sexual in nature or property related.
These results reflect a growing awareness of the role and importance of AAs for PMDs and have practical implications on service delivery and development. This paper’s findings on the profile of PMDs supported by AAs also set the groundwork for further research to investigate how PMDs interface with the criminal justice system.
