NCJ Number
206344
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 28 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2004 Pages: 70-72
Date Published
June 2004
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article presents advice for how police officers should conduct themselves when they are witnesses in a trial.
Abstract
It is important to remember that anyone an officer encounters around the courthouse at the time of the trial could potentially have an interest in the trial, such as a witness, a defense investigator, or the defendant’s family member. How an officer presents him or herself even outside of the courtroom is crucial to making a good impression and not tainting the trial. Since not all officers go to court on a regular basis, several reminders are presented that will help officers act appropriately when called as courtroom witnesses. These reminders include being punctual; practicing courtesy even outside the court building; gagging yourself to avoid saying inappropriate things; concealing evidence to avoid having it seen outside of trial; avoiding arguments with attorneys; and dressing appropriately for court. The most likely event to cause a mistrial is unauthorized communication with jury members. The case of Caliendo v. Warden illustrates that even casual conversation between witnesses and jurors about things as seemingly innocuous as the weather can lead to a mistrial. While cases are ongoing, it is best to refrain from talking with witnesses at all, about anything. Disciplined, thoughtful behavior can help save cases, as well as help win public support and approval.