Public Perceptions of Identification Procedures in the United Kingdom

Abstract

In recent years, there have been a number of new developments in identification procedures in the UK, with one of the main changes being a shift from live to video parades. The general public needs to be aware of how identification procedures are conducted, so that they can make informed decisions about whether to get involved in the Criminal Justice System process generally and identification procedures specifically. Thus, this research examined the public perception of identification procedures. In total, 448 members of the general population were surveyed regarding their knowledge about, and experience with, current identification procedures. Overall, the survey revealed a general lack of understanding about current identification procedures in the UK. Moreover, the sample surveyed possessed a number of misconceptions about the actual consequences of witness identification decisions, and about practical aspects related to the identification procedure itself. The results have important practical implications. In particular, more work is needed to research the most appropriate methods to inform the general population about the identification process and the role of a witness in UK.