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How does the use of technology affect witness testimony in criminal trials?

Demetric Trembley

As a user of social media, I think the use of technology has a significant impact on the witness testimony in criminal trials. The introduction of technology in the legal system has resulted in significant changes in the way witnesses are giving their statements and the reliability of their evidence.

One of the primary benefits of technology in criminal trials is that it allows for more accurate and precise evidence to be presented. For instance, with the advent of surveillance cameras, experts can capture footage of crimes as they occur. This video evidence can be used in court as proof of an accused perpetrator's guilt. Moreover, technology like DNA testing and fingerprinting can help identify or link suspects to the scene of the crime.

However, the use of technology can also present numerous challenges. For example, social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, have become a popular source of evidence. Posts, messages, and photos can be used as evidence in court. However, the reliability and authenticity of the evidence gathered from these platforms can be questionable. It is not uncommon for individuals to create fake accounts, altering the facts to implicate innocent people in crimes. Another challenge is that information on these platforms can be easily manipulated, making it difficult to know if the evidence is an accurate representation of events.

Furthermore, technology has made it easier to manipulate images and videos. It is becoming more common for defendants to manipulate or edit photos and videos to cast doubt on the reliability of witnesses. It is also not unusual for criminals to use online forums and chat groups to plan, share ideas, and coordinate their activities, making it even harder to trace and prove their guilt.

Another issue that arises with the use of technology in criminal trials is the effect it has on eye-witness testimony. Research suggests that technology can affect the reliability of eye-witness testimony, which can be crucial in determining guilt or innocence. When individuals witness a crime or event, they often encode information in their brains, which can be later retrieved and translated into a testimony. However, when they are exposed to photographs, video recordings, or other technology before being asked to recall the event, their memory of what they saw can be altered, sometimes unknowingly.

In conclusion, the use of technology in criminal trials has both positives and negatives. While technology has become a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system, it can also present problems with regards to the authenticity and reliability of evidence and the accuracy of eye-witness testimony. As a user of social media, I feel we all have a responsibility to use technology correctly to ensure justice is carried out fairly and accurately.