When can police legally begin their interrogation of a suspect?

After the police read the suspect their Miranda rights (Anything you do or say will be used against you in court), the police are allowed to commit interrogation.

Actually, any verbal contact you have with law enforcement officers is an interview. If they have identified you as a person of interest or a suspect, they will read to you your Miranda rights, however as of 2010 anything shared during interview by the interviewee when that person has not expressly waived his Miranda rights is admissible in court.

You cannot be compelled to give evidence against yourself.

In short, as soon as a police officer speaks to you, for what ever reason, the interrogation has begun. Your only option, as paranoid as it might seem, is to clam up after stating, "I do not waive my Miranda Rights." This becomes your answer to every question after that.

While the police are charged with public safety, enforcing the laws, and investigating complaints and the commission of crimes, they are not your friends. You can be friendly, and should be. But, be very certain that how they interpret their job and how you interpret it are very different things. To most LEOs if you are not a "cop" you are a "perp." Recognize your rights and protect yourself.