State v. Henderson and the New Model Jury Charges - New Jersey ...

Weapon Focus
ID accuracy is reduced when weapon is present
Witness’s ability to describe features or clothing is
better in weapon-absent conditions
Effect is particularly strong during crimes of short
duration
– Steblay, N. M. A Meta-Analytic Review of the Weapon Focus
Effect, 16 LAW AND HUM. BEHAV. 413 (1992)
See Dr. Kerri Pickel’s work:
• Unusual?
• Unexpected?
• Threat posed?