How to Identify The Suspect to Police

You’re worst nightmare just became a reality–let’s say you were mugged, assaulted, robbed, or witnesses a crime take place. You are now the witness to a crime, and police are going to want to question you about the suspect. What do you tell them? The best witnesses are excellent observers. When you are the victim of a crime, or if you simply witnessed one taking place, the best thing you can do is keep your senses alert and remember your observations of the suspect. 

Take note of the suspect’s appearance. Is the suspect a male or female? How do you know? Try to observe the suspect’s approximate height, weight, age, hair color, and ethnicity. Any distinguishing features should be duly noted, as these can be individual characteristics that lead to the correct identification of the suspect. Tattoos, scars, an unsual gait, missing fingers or limbs, or other features like this are very helpful to police. The more descriptive you can be, the better. 

The next thing you should be looking at is their clothing. What color is it? Was the suspect wearing a coat? A hat? Could you tell what brand any of the clothing was? Did you observe any jewelry, such as a wedding band or any piercings?

Were you close enough to see their face? If so, try to remember specific things about the suspect’s appearance. Take note of any facial hair, dental appliances, facial piercings, scars, tattoos, and other features. The color of their eyes, hair, and complexion are also good things to remember. If you were close enough to see their face, you may have heard their voice as well. Did you notice an accent, lisp, or stutter? Was the suspect speaking another language? These clues can be very beneficial in the investigation. 

Finally, where and how did the suspect flee the scene of the crime? If they fled on foot, take note of the direction. Also, any noticeable limp or otherwise unusual gait should be noted. If the suspect fled in a vehicle, be prepared to offer a description of the car as well. When a vehicle is involved, the first thing you should look for is the license plate number. Police can use this to track down the registered owner of the vehicle. Additionally, it is also good to observe the state on the license plate, the color of the vehicle, the make and model of the vehicle, the body style, and any unusual or distinguishing features. For example, dents, scratches, body kits, specialized paint jobs, and other unique characteristics can be helpful in identifying the suspect vehicle. 

Above all, stay safe! Do not put yourself in danger in order to observe the suspect in a crime taking place. If you are present as the crime is carried out, do your best to observe as many things as possible about the suspect.