Reading Assignment for Section 6.2

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 6.2: Eyewitness Identification.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll explore the critical role of eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations, along with the potential challenges and inaccuracies that can arise from relying on such testimony. You’ll learn about the procedures for handling emergency calls and the crucial role dispatchers play in ensuring accurate communication with first responders. Additionally, you’ll analyze the methods used in creating mug books and photo lineups, focusing on the importance of unbiased selection and arrangement. Finally, you’ll discuss the use of composite images in investigations, and evaluate the procedures for showups and lineups, emphasizing the need for strict guidelines to maintain the integrity and reliability of witness identifications.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 6.2

• SLO 1: Explain the importance of eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations, and identify the potential challenges and inaccuracies associated with relying on such testimony.
• SLO 2: Describe the procedures for handling emergency calls and the role of dispatchers in ensuring accurate and effective communication with first responders.
• SLO 3: Analyze the methods used in creating mug books and photo lineups, including the selection of photos, the arrangement of lineups, and the importance of avoiding bias during the identification process.
• SLO 4: Discuss the role of composite images in criminal investigations, including the process of creating accurate composites and the circumstances under which they are used.
• SLO 5: Evaluate the procedures for showups and lineups, emphasizing the importance of strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of witness identifications and the impact these procedures have on the reliability of the investigation.