What distinguishes a lineup from a show-up in law enforcement?

The distinction between a lineup and a show-up primarily lies in the setting and method of presentation to a witness. A lineup typically involves multiple individuals who are presented to a witness in a controlled environment, such as a police station, allowing the witness to view potential suspects alongside fillers (people who are not suspects but resemble the suspect). This method helps reduce the risk of misidentification, as the witness can compare and make a more informed decision about who they believe to be the perpetrator.

In contrast, a show-up occurs when a single suspect is presented to a witness shortly after the crime, usually at or near the scene. This method can be convenient for quick identifications but is sometimes criticized for its potential suggestiveness, since the witness only sees one individual without the context of a lineup.

Thus, recognizing that lineups are not performed on the scene but in a more structured setting highlights their formal nature and structured process in identifying suspects while aiming for a higher accuracy in identification. This clarity is crucial in understanding how law enforcement conducts these identification methods and the legal implications that follow.