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Eyewitness testimony

Cognitive Science and the Law

Date Published
2007
Publication Type
Research (Applied/Empirical), Report (Study/Research), Report (Grant Sponsored), Issue Overview
Agencies
NIJ-Sponsored

Expanding Research to Examine the Impacts of Forensic Science on the Criminal Justice System

December 2020

In 2004, the National Institute of Justice created the social science research on forensic sciences (SSRFS) research program to explore the impact of forensic sciences on the criminal justice system and the administration of justice. Much of the early research from the SSRFS program focused on DNA processing and the use of DNA in investigations and prosecutions.

How Collaboration Between Researchers and Police Chiefs Can Improve the Quality of Sexual Assault Investigations: A Look at Los Angeles

June 2011

Panelists discuss the application of research findings from an NIJ-sponsored study of sexual assault attrition to police practice in Los Angeles. There are three main focal points: (1) the mutual benefits of researcher/practitioner partnerships, (2) the implications of variation in police interpretation of UCR guidelines specific to clearing sexual assault (with an emphasis on cases involving nonstrangers), and (3) the content of specialized training that must be required for patrol officers and detectives who respond to and investigate sex crimes.

NIJ FY 10 ORE Research on Eyewitness Identification Procedures

Closing Date

NIJ seeks proposals to conduct research to improve understanding of current eyewitness identification practices and advance the current body of knowledge regarding how law enforcement policies and operations at the state and local levels may impact eyewitness identification outcomes. Eyewitness evidence plays a critical role in the criminal investigation process. Eyewitness evidence is not infallible, however, and the methods employed to obtain it and use...