Greetings,

As a CVSA Analyst and a 32-year law enforcement veteran, I highly encourage the use of the CVSA technology/methodology in the State of Virginia.  The CVSA, like the polygraph, is a very effective tool...I personally use the CVSA in the State of Indiana, seeking truth in those instances where only the accused (both guilty and innocent) holds the key. There are may instances where a crime is investigated and suspect(s) are identified, yet little to no information is discovered of evidentiary value that would point toward the most likely suspect. The CVSA, like the polygraph, is an outstanding tool for investigators in seeking out the guilty while excusing those who may be innocent...it's all about when in the investigation to utilize the technology. Investigators should always conduct thorough and complete investigations and interview skills should NEVER be replaced by either the CVSA or the polygraph.

The CVSA is NOT a replacement for the polygraph...it is merely a tool, like a polygraph, that detects (with a qualified examiner) stress reactions from a person that is asked where they may be culpable...nothing more, nothing less. Once the stress reaction is detected, the CVSA analyst or the polygraph examiner seeks from the interviewee an explanation for the stressful reaction, which is in turn validated or found to be untruthful (one or the other) with a follow-up examination. 

The CVSA provides the most "bang for the buck", especially considering the required certification time and cost for polygraph certification. The CVSA course gets the analyst in the field with competence and capability in a fraction of the time and cost of the polygraph certification course. As a Master of Public Administration (MPA) graduate, I feel that is a reality that can't and shouldn't be overlooked.

Respectfully,

Ray Dawson, MPA/BSL

Scott County Indiana Sheriff's Office

CVSA Analyst

812-752-8400