6.145 Witness Identification

Question 1

What is the departments policy in regards to Witness Identification?

Answer 1

It is the policy of this department when eyewitness identification is used as an investigative tool, officers shall adhere to the procedures set forth in order to maximize the reliability of identifications, minimize unjust accusations of innocent persons and to establish evidence which is reliable and in conformance with established legal procedure.

This policy pertains to especially photo line-ups, line-ups, and show-ups. If a video and/or audio recording is used for any line-up, the officer conducting the line-up will impound the recording per LVMPD 7.310, Impounding Evidence and Property. Mugs books generated by officers will not be shown to witnesses for identification purposes, unless specifically requested by the District Attorney’s Office.

Question 2

What are the supervisors responsibilities when conducting a photo line-up?

Answer 2

Supervisor responsibilities:

1. Will ensure the lead detective identifies which method will be utilized to show the photo line-up to eyewitness.
2. Ensure all photographs used in the photo line-up depict a visual likeness of the potential suspect.
3. Ensure photographs positions have been changed when a simultaneous photo line-up is used.
4. Review each photo line-up package and associated paperwork, post eyewitness viewing to ensure completeness.

Question 3

When should Show-Up Procedures be completed to ensure legality.

Answer 3

In the event multiple suspects are detained at same time, a show-up will only be conducted with one suspect at a time. The show-up should be done within a relative timeframe of 1-3 hours following the incident.

A show-up should be conducted at the location where the suspect is detained, within sixty (60) minutes of detainment, if not under arrest. See NRS 171.123