Final answer:
Law enforcement officials collect multiple hairs from a suspect to increase the chances of obtaining a valid DNA sample for forensic analysis, potentially leading to direct evidence that could identify the perpetrator of a crime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to a police procedure that's part of an investigation. In the scenario provided, police are employing a strategic approach to extract information from suspects involved in an armed robbery and weapons charge. The technique is reminiscent of the classic game theory dilemma known as the Prisoner's Dilemma, where suspects must choose between cooperating with each other or defecting (betraying) to minimize their own punishment. However, the question specifically asks about taking several hairs from a suspect which implies a forensic procedure. Collecting multiple hairs from a suspect can increase the likelihood of obtaining a sufficient sample for DNA analysis, which can then be compared to evidence found at the crime scene. This could help in identifying the actual perpetrator by providing direct evidence linked to the crime.