witness will tend to be more
relaxed
and
not
embarrassed
by
a
face-to-face
confrontation with the suspect.
(2) Objects. A lineup of objects for identification may be important in an
investigation.
When this procedure is used, a group of six or more objects,
similar to and including the particular object of interest, should be assembled for
inspection by the witness, who should then be requested to identify the object of
interest from among the group. The identification should be held in a well-lighted
room or other area away from public view.
Conducting the lineup will vary
according to the type of objects to be identified. For example:
(a) A vehicle to be identified may be placed in a parking lot with other
vehicles.
(b) A coat may be hung on an office coat rack among the coats of office
personnel.
(c) A firearm may be placed in a rack or cabinet with other firearms.
It is usually difficult for a witness to identify a firearm involved in an
incident.
If investigation has revealed that the witness can identify firearms
only as to type, the group of weapons should include one or two weapons of the type
described by him.
b. Composite Photographs and Sketches.
In the identification of persons,
employing composite photographs or sketches may be valuable. This involves showing
the witness a number of photographs or sketches of facial features, such as
foreheads, eyes, noses, mouths, and chins. Request that he select in each instance
the one which most nearly resembles that facial feature of the person to be
identified.
c. Use of an Artist.
To provide a picture of the likeness of persons or
objects, the service of an artist may be employed. From the description given by a
witness, or from a composite of the description given by several witnesses, a
skillful artist can often prepare a sketch or portrait that will be of value in
locating the subject of interest. This technique may also be combined with the use
of composite photographs or sketches; or, if they are not available, the witness
may be shown photographs of different persons or objects and requested to indicate
to the artist those features which most closely resemble those of the person or
object to be drawn. In the case of an object, the witness may be able to describe
accurately an item of well-known appearance or one from his own property without
the aid of photographs of similar objects.
The goal is the drawing or portrait
which will be useful in the conduct of the investigation.
5-31
MP1016
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