What is a show-up in criminal investigations?

A show-up in criminal investigations refers to a procedure where an eyewitness sees a single live suspect shortly after a crime has occurred. This method is typically employed when there is an urgent need to identify a suspect, often taking place in close proximity to the scene of the crime. The emphasis on showing only one person helps to avoid confusion that can arise when multiple individuals are presented at once, thereby allowing the eyewitness to focus on that single individual.

This process aims to obtain an immediate identification, which can be critical for the timely apprehension of suspects and is often used in scenarios where the crime is fresh and immediate recognition is more likely. The simplicity of this approach can enhance the reliability of the identification when handled properly, although it also raises concerns about suggestiveness and potential eyewitness error if not conducted appropriately.

In contrast, methods like presenting multiple suspects or formal identification processes involve different approaches that may not provide the immediacy required in certain urgent situations.