In a showup identification, what is typically presented to the witness?

In a showup identification, a witness is typically presented with a single suspect. This method is used shortly after a crime has occurred, often at the location of the crime or nearby, to quickly identify a potential perpetrator. The witness is asked to confirm whether this individual is the person they saw committing the crime.

This approach is designed to maximize the chances of accurate identification by limiting the number of choices the witness must make. By presenting only one individual, the procedure aims to reduce the potential for misidentification that can occur when multiple suspects are shown simultaneously, as in a lineup or series of photographs.

Using only one suspect also helps eliminate the influence of social dynamics that might occur if multiple individuals are present, thereby streamlining the process while also keeping the witness's memory fresh.