Which of the following is a characteristic described as developing rapport with victims and witnesses?

• A. Suspicious
• B. Curious
• C. Rapport
• D. Observant

Answer: (C)

Developing rapport with victims and witnesses means establishing trust and a positive interpersonal connection that makes them feel safe and willing to share information. In practice, this involves using respectful language, a calm and nonthreatening tone, active listening, and consistent follow-through. When rapport is established, people are more likely to open up, provide accurate details, and cooperate with the investigation.

That’s why this term is the best fit: it explicitly describes the interpersonal bond and trust built between the officer and those involved. The other options don’t capture that relational aspect. Being suspicious would harm trust; being curious is about wanting to know more but doesn't define the interpersonal connection; being observant relates to noticing details, not to forming a trusting relationship.