Good vs. Poor Denials: What Investigators Must Know

By Joe Koenig – Author of “Getting the Truth”

“The principles in this article will enable you to distinguish between good and poor denials – making you a better investigator and a better decision-maker.” – Joe Koenig

A good denial is clear, concise, and stands alone. It helps close the door on an allegation, while a poor denial often leaves the door wide open and adds suspicion.

Truthful people use simple language: “I didn’t do it.” Deceptive denials often include qualifiers like “I would never” or “Let’s say I didn’t.” These weaken the denial and suggest manipulation.

In investigative contexts, listening for clarity, brevity, and specificity can help you judge credibility. A poor denial is often more revealing than a confession.

Understanding the difference between good and poor denials empowers professionals to make informed decisions based on what is said—and unsaid.