Eyewitness identification in crimes with multiple perpetrators

Project code: PSYC3160217

This project will examine eyewitness identification in cases with multiple perpetrator crimes. Reliable eyewitness identification procedures are critical for the success of criminal investigations and the integrity of the criminal justice system. Identification officers routinely administer identity parades to investigate whether a person suspected of committing a crime is guilty or innocent. In the UK alone, over 90,000 parades are administered each year. Under the right circumstances, eyewitness identification evidence can greatly assist the investigation and prosecution of criminals. However, eyewitness identification errors can lead an investigation astray and put innocent suspects at risk of wrongful conviction.

Wrongful convictions are a global issue of paramount importance. Mistaken eyewitness identification occurred in 70% of wrongful convictions overturned by DNA evidence. Several prominent reviews of wrongful conviction cases, both in the UK and internationally, cite mistaken identification as the single greatest contributing factor. Although the American cases have gained the most notoriety, the global nature of the problem is evident from DNA-based exonerations in the Netherlands, Japan, Mexico, and the UK. To prevent wrongful convictions, the underlying causes must be addressed. Thus, an identification procedure must facilitate correct identifications of the perpetrator while also protecting innocent suspects from mistaken identification.

Contrary to the most laboratory research, which tests witnesses for single-perpetrator crimes, field studies suggest that most cases requiring eyewitness identification involve multiple perpetrators. In these cases, police investigators may not be using the most effective method of identification. The successful applicant will lead a programme of research to investigate new ways to test the memory of witnesses in cases with multiple perpetrators, beginning with a meta-analysis of the existing literature and progressing with experiments using old-new recognition and staged-crime eyewitness identification paradigms.

The successful candidate will receive training and support throughout the duration of the project. Training in relevant methodology and statistics will be offered, including instruction on how to conduct a systematic meta-analytic review. The PhD student would become part of the Centre’s group of existing PhD students. Support will be provided by the supervisory team, external collaborators, and other members of the Department of Psychology. The University of Portsmouth is home to the International Centre for Research in Forensic Psychology, a team of research-intensive staff with a track record of publishing, impact, and grant success.