What is a Prosecution Witness?
In a criminal prosecution, the state or federal government will often depend on a prosecution witness to prove its case. A prosecution witness is often a law enforcement officer, but may be a civilian as well. Civilian witnesses may include a victim of the crime, an expert witness, a confidential informant, or a bystander who witnessed the crime when it happened. During a criminal trial, the prosecution must present its case to the judge or jury and convince them that the defendant committed the crime. Evidence may be admitted as part of the prosecution’s case. Evidence may be in the form of documents, tangible evidence, or testimony from witnesses. A law enforcement officer is almost always included as a prosecution witness. The law enforcement officer may testify to what information was gathered during the investigation of the crime or what was personally observed by the officer. In addition, testimony may be offered regarding any statements the defendant made to the officer after th
