NCJ Number
80014
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1981) Pages: 8-12
Date Published
1981
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The use of the polygraph in Polish criminal proceedings is outlined, and judicial decisions bearing upon the legal status of polygraph results are discussed.
Abstract
The modern application of the polygraph in Poland began in 1969, having been preceded by research studies and numerous tests. From 1969 to 1978, the polygraph was used in about 300 serious criminal cases, mainly homicides and burglaries. The number of examinations has increased each year, and most have used the Reid technique. Recently, the charts have been scored numerically, using a system resembling Backster's. Research on the general diagnostic value of the polygraph technique continues. Until 1976, the Polish Supreme Court did not specifically refer to polygraph evidence or the use of the polygraph in any of its decisions. In 1976, however, the Supreme Court ruled that polygraph results could not stand as independent evidence but could be used only as supplementary evidence. The Court indicated that polygraph results can do little more than establish an emotional link between a defendant and an event. A 1977 Supreme Court decision recognized the use of polygraph results as evidence but stated that results must be accompanied by a doctor's statement regarding the examinee's physical and emotional health. Opponents of the use of the polygraph in Poland are decreasing, and anticipated scientific progress should further establish the value of polygraph results in criminal cases. Thirteen references are listed.