Reformers denied full access to police-lineup data

Critics who want to do away with traditional police lineups where witnesses view suspects together in the same room have suffered a legal defeat.

A judge has ruled Chicago police don't have to turn over all the raw data used in an Illinois report that criticizes a newer method where witnesses view suspects one at a time.

The report has undermined reforms nationwide because supporters of the status quo often cite it in opposing change.

The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers filed a lawsuit last year seeking the raw data so they could assess the report's validity. Lawyers for the Chicago-based MacArthur Justice Center filed it on the NACDL's behalf.

The center says Monday's ruling is a "defeat" and they'll appeal.