Fair and reliable suspect identification procedures are crucial to solving crimes, convicting criminals, and ensuring the innocent are not prosecuted. The Department recognizes there are various methods to conduct fair and reliable suspect identification procedures/photo arrays. The following guidelines are intended to ensure the reliability, fairness, and consistency of suspect identification procedures throughout the Department.
Absent extraordinary circumstances, photo arrays should be displayed to witnesses by deputy personnel (e.g., detectives, detective supervisors, etc.) who have received Department‑approved training in proper procedures and law.
Deputies should use techniques that do not influence a witness in their identification of a suspect. Regardless of the method used, the deputy is required to uphold the integrity of the suspect identification procedures, and shall document the steps taken in each case in notes or reports.