Thesis examining the accuracy of witness statements for real world criminal events

Lilley, Alexandra (2024). Thesis examining the accuracy of witness statements for real world criminal events. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Eyewitness testimony is paramount to the solving of crimes by giving police forensically relevant evidence to apprehend suspects. However, eyewitness memory errors are also a leading cause of wrongful convictions (Innocence Project, 2020) which points to the importance of gaining accurate memory information from witnesses. Accuracy can be affected by both the witness being mistaken in their recollection or actively being dishonest. This thesis examines how the accuracy of memory reporting can be affected and discusses theory explaining memory reporting. This is achieved through examining the current field literature on memory reporting in a systematic literature review (Chapter Two). Next, a secondary data analysis on real world crimes examines the potential mechanisms that may underlie memory reporting in the field to enhance accuracy (Chapter Three). A psychometric critique of Statement Validity Analysis, with particular focus on the Criteria-Based Content Analysis component of this tool, is next discussed, which attempts to determine the credibility of witness statements (Chapter Four). Finally, the conclusions and the theoretical and practical implications of the thesis are discussed in Chapter Five. The thesis identifies future research areas needed to better understand memory reporting in the field and the possible theoretical mechanisms underlying witness memory reporting. It also suggests implications for practice, including for UK police interviewing practice, to improve the accuracy and completeness of witness statements. Ultimately, such implications should improve the accuracy of testimony, reduce wrongful convictions, and ensure that witnesses are not underestimated.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):