What must police do before starting a custodial interrogation?

Prior to beginning a custodial interrogation, police are required to read the suspect their Miranda rights. This practice stems from the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Miranda v. Arizona, which established that individuals taken into custody should be informed of their rights to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. This is crucial because the process of custodial interrogation can be psychologically coercive, and individuals may not fully understand their rights without being informed. By reading these rights, police ensure that the suspect is aware of their legal protections, allowing them to make informed decisions about whether to speak or remain silent during interrogation. This requirement helps uphold the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and ensures that any statements made during the interrogation are admissible in court.