Mr. Herndon. In that particular case, the FBI ordinarily would not render a polygraph examination to any individual in which there was any indication or evidence that he was psychotic.
Mr. Specter. What validity would a polygraph examination have on a person who was a psychotic depressive with respect to the mental condition?
Mr. Herndon. The examination would be completely inconclusive or invalid in view of the fact that a psychotic individual is divorced from reality, and the tracings on his polygrams could not be logically interpreted.
Mr. Specter. Then is it necessary that a person be in touch with reality and understand the nature of the questions and answers in order for a polygraph examination to have any validity?
Mr. Herndon. Yes, it is.
Mr. Specter. Did you have occasion to conduct a polygraph examination on Jack Ruby?
Mr. Herndon. Yes, I did, on July 18, 1964.
Mr. Specter. And at whose request was that polygraph examination conducted?
Mr. Herndon. The examination of Jack Ruby was conducted at the specific request of the President’s Commission.
It is my understanding that Mr. Ruby specifically requested such a polygraph examination to the Commission in a prior interview he had with the Chief Justice.