Final answer:
Pocket picking or purse snatching becomes a robbery when it involves force or intimidation. Police identify suspects through witness descriptions and interrogation tactics, aiming to differentiate between minor offenses and serious crimes like armed robbery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Victims of pocket picking or purse snatching are considered to be victims of robbery when the act includes force or the threat of force. Robbery is defined legally as taking someone's property through violence or intimidation. In instances such as the scenario presented, where individuals are suspected of armed robbery, the police attempt to identify the criminals through witness descriptions, although there can be significant uncertainty. In the process of interrogating suspects, police officers may separate individuals to prevent collaboration and use tactics that encourage them to reveal information on the crime committed. The moral and ethical implications of these actions tap into broader discussions around financial crimes, deviance, and their impact on society.