Different types of witnesses will provide evidence from different perspectives, and these perspectives need to be assessed by the investigator to establish the reliability of the evidence provided.
Once the identity of a witness has been determined, an investigator needs to establish an understanding of the witness classification.
Witness statement definition verification#
This can be best achieved by viewing a valid photo ID or, in the absence of photo ID, by establishing the witness’ identity through other means, such as police records, confirmation of identity, or verification of identity by a credible third party. Regardless of the reason, it is imperative for an investigator to verify the identity of each witness. The reasons for this deception can vary from actual involvement in the crime to fear of reprisals from the suspect to simply not wanting to become involved with the criminal justice system. It is sometimes the case that persons found as apparent witnesses to an event do not always provide accurate information about their identity. Recognizing dominant witness influences and conformity.Identifying the witness/suspect dilemma.The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the following concepts as they relate to the process of witness management. It is important for an investigator to understand these elements as this allows an investigator to evaluate witnesses and collect witness evidence that will be acceptable to the courts. Witness statements will assist the investigator in forming reasonable grounds to lay a charge and will assist the court in reaching a decision that the charge against an accused person has been proved beyond a reasonable doubt.Īs the law has evolved regarding witnesses, many rules of evidence, definitions, and protocols have developed to govern the way witnesses may testify in court. Witness testimony is the verbal account of events or knowledge of the facts relevant to the crime. “Different types of witnesses will provide evidence from different perspectives, and these perspectives need to be assessed by the investigator to establish the reliability of the evidence provided.”įor any investigation, the details of events provided by witnesses are a critical element of the evidence gathered.
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