Bill > H0875

This bill proposes comprehensive reforms to eyewitness identification procedures in Florida, establishing strict guidelines to improve the accuracy and fairness of criminal investigations. The legislation defines key terms like "lineup," "show-up," and "facial recognition technology" and mandates that law enforcement follow evidence-based practices when conducting identification procedures. Key provisions include requiring officers to document a detailed description of the perpetrator provided by the eyewitness, limiting the use of facial recognition technology, and specifying that lineups must include a suspect and at least five similar-looking fillers who do not stand out from each other. The bill also requires that identification procedures be conducted by an independent administrator, with specific instructions given to eyewitnesses before the procedure, such as informing them that they are not obligated to make an identification and that the investigation will continue regardless of the outcome. Additionally, the bill mandates audio and video recording of identification procedures, allows attorneys to observe the process silently, and requires documentation of the eyewitness's confidence level in their identification. The goal of these provisions is to reduce the risk of wrongful identifications and enhance the reliability of eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/875