3D laser imaging transforms crime scene analysis

Advanced laser scanning and photogrammetry techniques are set to revolutionise police investigation and criminal justice procedures with virtual 3D immersive environments and analysis techniques.

Using the latest technology from Advanced Laser Imaging, accurate 3D digital recordings of crime scenes can be captured quickly, reducing the amount of time and the number of personnel required at the scene and hence the risk of contamination.

The accurate ‘enhanced capture’ of the scene’s details can also reduce the risk of lost evidence, while the recording can be made available for the ongoing use of the whole investigation team, removing the need for repeated visits to the physical location.

With the ability to ‘walk through’ the scene, team members can assess it from any perspective and take accurate measurements. With additional advanced techniques combining the use of photogrammetry, the recordings can also be used to analyse and plot CCTV fields of view, track suspects from poor-quality CCTV and even plot bullet trajectories and firing points.

This ability can be applied to the accurate reconstruction of historical crime scenes and is having a profound impact on cold case investigations and inquests.

In addition, the interactivity of the recordings can be used to help gather, and test the veracity of, witness statements.

Already accepted as admissible by UK courts and inquests, the images, videos and plans can be played back through courtroom audio visual equipment and are helping to deliver greater clarity on critical evidence while also saving time and money by encouraging earlier guilty pleas and reducing the need for juries to make visits to scenes of crime.