What should law enforcement avoid during a non-custodial interview of a juvenile?

In a non-custodial interview of a juvenile, law enforcement should avoid having visible weapons present. This choice is correct because the presence of weapons can create an intimidating atmosphere that may influence the juvenile’s willingness to communicate openly. Juveniles are often more sensitive to their environment and may feel threatened or coerced if they perceive that officers are armed. This could hinder the effectiveness of the interview and lead to unreliable information being provided.

Creating a safe and comfortable environment is crucial during interviews with juveniles to encourage honest dialogue. The other options, such as offering snacks, asking open-ended questions, and using a calming tone, are generally positive practices that can help in establishing rapport and making the juvenile feel more at ease. Therefore, the emphasis on avoiding visible weapons directly relates to fostering a constructive interviewing environment.