A criminal witness is an individual who has seen or experienced an event related to a crime and can provide testimony about it in a legal setting. Their observations can be crucial in helping law enforcement and the judicial system understand what happened during the incident. Witnesses may provide information about the crime scene, the suspect, or the victim, and their accounts can significantly influence the outcome of a trial. In many cases, witnesses are called to testify in court, where they may be questioned by both the prosecution and the defense. Their credibility and reliability are essential, as juries often rely on witness testimony to make informed decisions. Protecting the identity and safety of witnesses is also important, especially in serious cases involving organized crime or violence, where retaliation may be a concern.