The article explores the origins and development of the NYPD’s Brooklyn Stand-Up mugshot system, a photographic identification method introduced in 1918.

Before this system was implemented, the New York City Police Department relied on the “Rogues Gallery,” a collection established in 1857 that contained thousands of small portrait photographs of known criminals.These images were organized by physical traits such as height and criminal specialization.

Later, at the turn of the 20th century, law enforcement incorporated the Bertillon system, a French method of identification that combined detailed physical measurements with standardized front-and-profile mugshots.Seeking a more practical and immediate way for detectives to identify repeat offenders in the field, the NYPD developed the Brooklyn Stand-Up series.

Unlike traditional mugshots focused only on facial features, this method captured full-body photographs of suspects standing against plain backgrounds or height charts.

This allowed police to better assess physical characteristics, posture, and overall appearance, making identification more effective for street-level enforcement.

The system also introduced group stand-up photographs when multiple suspects—such as gang members, pickpockets, or criminal associates—were arrested together.These group images documented physical associations and relative body sizes, helping investigators understand criminal networks and collaborations.The practice primarily targeted recidivist offenders and individuals accused of serious crimes.

Examples from the collection include arrests spanning the 1930s and 1940s, such as cases involving grand larceny, felony assault, homicide, and other violent offenses.Individuals like Margie Goldberg, Sarah Klein, Anna Miller, Claire Odds, and others were photographed as part of this documentation process.

Overall, the Brooklyn Stand-Up mugshot system represents an evolution in early 20th-century policing techniques, reflecting a shift toward more comprehensive visual records to assist in criminal identification and investigative work.