CHAPTER 18 FIELD IDENTIFICATION

Field Identification

• Field identification is a procedure where a suspect is presented singly to a witness.
• It is conducted near the scene of the offense, typically within one hour of the crime.
• Field identification can be done by holding the suspect at the location of arrest or by bringing the suspect to the witness.
• Officers should consider the witness's mental and emotional state before conducting a field identification.
• If the witness appears distressed or disoriented, a lineup should be used instead.
• Field identification happens as quickly as practical after the arrest.
• If the witness does not identify the suspect, the suspect is released unless there is probable cause to believe they committed an offense.
• The suspect does not have the right to legal representation during a field identification.
• If there is probable cause to arrest, a field identification can occur even before the suspect is officially arrested if the suspect consents.
• A field identification is allowed without probable cause if the officer reasonably suspects the detained person, at the scene within an hour of the offense, committed the crime.
• Field identification can be conducted even later if a medical emergency exists and medical authorities approve.
• Only one or two witnesses view the suspect during a field identification to avoid influencing other witnesses, who can be used later in a lineup.
• Field identification happens away from the crime scene to protect evidence.
• Officers document the circumstances of field identification, recording details like location, lighting conditions, witness information, distance, and remarks made during the identification.

Informal Identification

• Informal identification involves officers observing a suspect who is at liberty and unaware of being observed.
• This method is used when there is no probable cause for arrest.
• A detailed record of informal identification procedures is vital, capturing details like the date, time, and location of observation, the number of persons resembling the suspect viewed, and the reactions of both the suspect and the witness.

Lineups and Photo Displays

• Lineups and photo identification displays are conducted according to guidelines established by the Criminal Investigations Division.

General Rules

• All identification procedures follow a fair and impartial approach to avoid influencing the witness.
• Officers avoid suggesting the suspect's guilt or innocence to the witness.
• Witnesses are informed before viewing a lineup: they are not obligated to identify a suspect, and drawing conclusions solely based on custody or handcuffs is prohibited.
• Eyewitness identification is unnecessary if the witness did not see the offender during the crime or if the witness is unable to identify anyone.

This quiz covers the essential aspects of field identification, a procedure used in law enforcement to present a suspect to a witness shortly after a crime. It includes guidelines on the timing, circumstances, and considerations for conducting this identification method. Understanding these principles is crucial for effective witness testimony and suspect handling.