North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What is a "show-up" in law enforcement?

1. A group identification

2. A one-on-one confrontation between a suspect and victim/witness

3. A recorded interrogation

4. A traffic stop

The correct answer is: A one-on-one confrontation between a suspect and victim/witness

A "show-up" in law enforcement refers to a one-on-one confrontation between a suspect and a victim or witness, typically conducted shortly after the crime has occurred. This procedure allows law enforcement to quickly assess whether the witness can identify the suspect, which can be critical in the early stages of an investigation. The key characteristic of a show-up is its immediacy; it usually happens in close proximity to the time and location of the incident, facilitating better recall and recognition by the witness. The settings for show-ups are often informal and can occur at the scene of the crime or at a nearby location. Law enforcement officers aim to ensure that the process is as fair and unbiased as possible to protect the integrity of the identification. This procedure differs from other forms of identification, such as lineups or group identifications, where multiple individuals are presented at the same time. Understanding this concept is crucial for individuals preparing for law enforcement roles, as it directly relates to witness reliability and evidence collection during investigations.