Christopher E. Kelly

Christopher E. Kelly is a Professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, PA. He serves as Director and Deputy Chair of the International Investigative Interviewing Research Group (iIIRG) and leads multinational efforts to implement science-based investigative interviewing methods via the ImpleMendez project.

Education:

• PhD in Criminal Justice, Temple University (2012)
• MA in Criminal Justice, University at Albany (2001)
• BS in Sociology, Drexel University (2000)

Dr. Kelly’s research focuses on humane interrogation techniques, evidence presentation strategies, and the intersection of substance abuse with criminal justice. He has collaborated with police departments in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Las Vegas, and advised organizations including the UNODC and RCMP.

His published work spans interrogator-suspect dynamics, context manipulation in interviews, and the development of ethical interviewing frameworks. Articles highlight trends in police interviewing practices and the cognitive effects of interrogation methods.

Scientific Awards:

• Academic Excellence Award, iIIRG (2016)

Grants: Funded by DHS, Homeland Security, and the High Value Detainee Interrogation Group for studies on evidence disclosure, network analysis, and intelligence-gathering methods.

He actively mentors undergraduate and graduate students, emphasizing practical research in criminal justice settings.