What position should the officer's hands be while in the interview stance?

The correct position for an officer's hands while in the interview stance is above waist level. This positioning is important for several reasons. Firstly, having the hands elevated and visible conveys openness and readiness to engage with the individual being interviewed. It helps to build trust and communication, as it signals a non-threatening demeanor.

Additionally, maintaining the hands above waist level allows the officer to quickly respond to any unexpected situations. In defensive tactics, positioning the hands in a way that provides mobility while being easily accessible for any necessary defensive or control techniques is crucial. It prepares the officer to react appropriately if the situation escalates and promotes situational awareness.

The other options, such as having hands at the sides, in pockets, or crossed over the chest, could hinder the officer's ability to respond swiftly. Hands at the sides may convey defensiveness or disinterest, while having them in pockets limits mobility. Crossing the arms over the chest can be perceived as defensive or closed-off body language, which is not conducive to effective communication and rapport-building during an interview. Thus, maintaining the hands above waist level is the optimal choice for both safety and effective engagement.