Town of Dunstable, MA

What specific individual characteristics should you observe when observing a criminal suspect in action? Is there a quick and easy method which captures specific identifying features? These are the questions we hope to answer in this months feature article.

We begin with describing the individual suspect. It is always best to develop a specific method to describe persons or objects. Maybe you look from the top to the bottom or from the left to the right while noting specific details (e.g. scars, tattoos, wrinkle marks Etc). You may take notice of the head. Is the head round, triangular, square or oval shaped? Is the face thin or fat? What color is the hair? How is the hair parted? Is the hair long or short? Does the person have a long forehead or is the forehead short? You should observe the eye brows. Are they thin or bushy? Eyebrows may sometimes be directed upward or downward.

The eyes may provide additional details. What color are the eyes? Eye colors can be easily changed with contacts.
Are the eye sockets rounded or oval shaped? Are the lashes thin or heavy? The pupils may be dilated or constricted which may or may not indicate recent drug use. Is the individual wearing glasses and what type of glasses?
The nose may be long and pointed or short and fat. A bend in the nose may indicate the nose was once broken. The nostrils may flare outward or point inward. Look for a unique curvature of the nose.

Criminals often do not take the time to disguise ears. Carefully observe the ears. The distinct features and size of the earlobes should be noted. Does the earlobe protrude or is it placed close to head? Earlobes are distinct to each individual, and criminals often neglect to disguise their earlobes.

Examine the face for facial hair. Witnesses should make note of any unusual scars, marks, or moles. The location of these facial marks should be noted. Facial marks may be as valuable as fingerprint identification. Wrinkle marks on the face may be seen around the mouth. The lips may be full or thin. Observe the features of both the top and lower lips.

Lastly examine the individual's clothes from top to bottom. You should make note of any hats and the position in which they are worn (e.g. to the side or backwards). Special consideration should be given to jackets, shirts, pants, and shoes. In addition to clothing color, you might take careful note as to whether the clothing was worn tightly or loosely. Clothing may appear neat or unkempt.

Remember the sound of the voice. Is the voice high or low? Does the person speak with a particular accent common in another geographic area?

Although you may have only a few minutes to make these critical observations, practicing a consistent method to identify a potential suspect may prove invaluable during a follow-up investigation. Remember never to risk further danger in order to provide a more complete description. Personal safety must remain paramount.

"Working together in Community Partnership!"

James G. Downes III
Chief of Police

Emergency 9-1-1, Business 978 649 7445