Problems of Forensic Sciences 2013 Vol. 95 (XCV) 611-619
POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION AS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD OF ALIBI VERIFICATION
Piotr HERBOWSKI
Institute of Law, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznań, Poland
Streszczenie
The purpose of this article is to show the necessity for changes concerning alibi verification. An analysis of investigative practice clearly demonstrates that this is one of the most difficult tasks which must be dealt with by law enforcement agencies in the criminal process. It seems to be underestimated, although the consequences of committed mistakes are often serious, as real perpetrators are acquitted and innocent people are unjustifiedly arrested or even convicted. These mistakes result both from focusing on operational findings and using traditional methods – generally, interrogations and identification parades – the value of which has been questioned for many years. Apart from this, there is a tendency towards falling into a routine, inaccuracy in the implementation of these methods and little criticism in the evaluation of the obtained results. The possibility of using a polygraph examination in alibi verification is still being overlooked. This may be caused by ignorance or doubts concerning its legal admissibility, which have existed for many years. This situation should change because using a polygraph in this area of investigative practice is supported by many arguments, such as the high accuracy of obtained results in a short period of time and, thus, reduction of costs of legal proceedings, especially during the so-called alibi check (for the purposes of elimination). The possibility of verification of results of operational actions or even the limitation of their use should also be mentioned.
Słowa kluczowe
Polygraph examination; Polygraph; Evidential; Alibi verification; Investigation version.