Identification Flashcards
When does the presentation of a photo board cease?
When a positive identification is made.
What are the 4 principles of photo ID?
- Subjects must be of similar AGE & APPEARANCE
- Must be at least 12 photos
- NO MARKS on photos to indicate suspect
- No assistance given to witness
In order to be admissible in court, what must the ID parade be?
Fair, and seen to be fair.
When can a suspect refuse to take part in an ID parade?
When detained. An arrested person is compelled to take part, however forcing them may render it unfair as they may make themselves conspicuous.
What is the rule for stand ins?
Must be of similar age, height, dress, and general appearance to the subject.
What is the minimum and maximum number of stand ins in a parade for 1 suspect?
5, and 1 suspect, and 8 and 1 subject.
Can 2 suspects appear in the same ID parade?
Yes, if of similar appearance.
When is VIPER the preferred method of ID?
With children and vulnerable witnesses.
What is the main objective of the vulnerable witnesses act 2004?
That the witness does not need to make a dock identification of the accused in court.
**unless challenged by defence**
What is an informal/group ID?
Occurs if detainee refuses ID parade. Witnesses are taken to a place the suspect is known to frequent and point them out. Can also occur if the suspect is unknown but are known to be part of a group which frequents somewhere specific.
** Dock ID must take place if proceeds to court**
When is a fingerprint sufficient to convict?
When the fingerprint is found in a place where it could only have been left by the culprit.
Can previous fingerprint/DNA records be used as evidence against a suspect?
No. Fingerprints and DNA must be taken at the time of detention, previous records are not admissible.
Why are fingerprints admissible as ID?
- They are formed in the embryo
- Formation remains the same until decomposition after death (unless scarred).
- Variation of formation means that even a small area is unique to a person.
