• Bamboodpanda@lemmy.world
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    16 days ago

    In your scenarios, all of the plaintiffs are related to the accused in a similar way and would have a common incentive to make the accusation. That kind of situation naturally raises concerns about collusion or bias. By contrast, when multiple independent and unconnected individuals come forward with similar accusations, the evidentiary weight is very different. Courts recognize that corroboration from unrelated parties strengthens credibility, because it reduces the likelihood of a coordinated or self-serving motive.

    For example, in United States v. Bailey, 581 F.2d 341 (3d Cir. 1978), the court noted that corroborating testimony from independent witnesses could significantly enhance credibility and probative value. Similarly, Federal Rule of Evidence 404(b) allows prior bad acts to be admitted in limited circumstances, precisely because independent, consistent reports can establish patterns that are unlikely to result from mere coincidence or collusion.

    • MourningDove@lemmy.zip
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      16 days ago

      Thanks for bring up an example of precedence. It helps a lot.

      And look at that statement:

      could significantly enhance credibility and probative value.

      could significantly enhance credibility.

      It’s not evidence to lead to conviction.

        • NotASharkInAManSuit@lemmy.world
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          16 days ago

          Yes, “expert witness” testimony sends people to prison all the time. If you don’t know what that is, they are state lackeys labeled experts in whatever field by the prosecuting attorney to go up and lie about why the defendant is guilty in their “expert” opinion.

      • NotASharkInAManSuit@lemmy.world
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        16 days ago

        “Great job, that definitely shows he’s a rapist, but we still can’t say he’s a rapist!” - You, that’s what you sound like.

        I thought you said you were going to block me, whatever happened to that?