What does witness identification involve?

Witness identification specifically involves the recognition of a suspect in a lineup. This process allows a witness to visually identify an individual they believe to be involved in a crime, and it is a crucial part of many criminal investigations. Lineups can take various forms, including in-person lineups and photographic lineups, but the core purpose remains the same: to determine whether a witness can accurately recognize and identify the person they saw committing a crime.

The accuracy and reliability of this process can significantly impact the outcome of a legal case, making proper procedures and protocols essential to minimize the risk of misidentification. This practice is grounded in psychological research on memory and perception, ensuring that witness identifications are as reliable as possible within the judicial system.