The concept of "innocent until proven guilty" is a fundamental principle of many legal systems, including that of the United States. It means that a person is presumed innocent of a crime until the prosecution can provide evidence beyond a reasonable doubt to prove their guilt in a court of law. This principle ensures that individuals are not treated as criminals before their guilt has been established through a fair trial.
Mug shots are photographs taken by law enforcement agencies when a person is arrested and processed. The purpose of these photos is to create a visual record of the person at the time of their arrest and to help with identification, both for investigative purposes and for the public if necessary.
The reason why people are often not allowed to smile in their mug shots is to maintain uniformity and consistency in the photos. Smiling can alter a person's facial features, and it may be challenging to obtain a clear and accurate representation of the individual's face. By keeping a neutral facial expression, authorities can more easily identify the person if needed and use the photograph as an objective record.
While the inability to smile in a mug shot might seem like a minor issue, it is crucial to remember that it is only a temporary measure taken during the arrest and booking process. It does not inherently imply guilt or innocence and should not influence the presumption of innocence during any subsequent legal proceedings. The principle of "innocent until proven guilty" remains intact throughout the entire legal process.