A Survey of Law Officers And Its Significance for Cross-Examining Witnesses About Eyewitness Accurac

The authors surveyed law enforcement officers(1) to test their knowledge about memory, (2) to test their knowledge of how factors present during crimes (weapons, disguises) can affect eyewitness accuracy, and (3) to determine how they conduct eyewitness interviews and identification procedures. According to the survey results, most officers do not conduct proper eyewitness interviews and identification procedures, and have limited knowledge of eyewitness factors. These deficits suggest a framework for a defense attorney’s cross-examination of officers and eyewitnesses at hearings and trials.