The Use of Computers in Forensic Science

Computer technology paves the way of the future in forensic science.

Forensic scientists rely on computers to evaluate information effectively and to expedite the lengthy, meticulous process of collecting and analyzing evidence. They use computer software programs with algorithms to calculate traces of data and to find forensic matches. In doing so, forensic scientists are able to conclude a depiction of a crime, how it occurred and who and what was implicated in the event, often solving a case so justice is served.

Forensic Facial Imaging

Computers can reconstruct an unidentified deceased person.

Forensic scientists use computer technology to reconstruct faces of unidentified, deceased people. They scan the skull of the cadaver and attempt to reconfigure a facial image through a database of head models with matching traits: age, sex and race. Scientists then use the reference to digitize an image, which is two or three-dimensional. The software is programmed to use digital algorithms to propose a facial image; hopefully, initiating the first stage in identification.

Computer Technology in Forensic Dentistry

Scientists use digital software to detect criminal evidence.

Forensic odontologists procure dental evidence in a homicide case--bite marks on the victim, which may pinpoint the attacker, and teeth from the corpse. To identify the criminal or victim, they search through dental records and databases for a match. Scientists use digital imaging software to help expedite the process and ensure precision. The computerized system can measure accurately any parameters of evidence, correct any size discrepancies, and disregard any bias of opinion.

Digital Bloodstain Analysis

Bloodstain gives scientists clues to events that occured during the crime.

Bloodstain pattern analysis is the investigation of blood from the crime scene to determine the sequence of events that occurred. Scientists use computer programs with trigonometric functions to pinpoint the exact direction where each droplet landed and to infer from its size and path how much trauma was forced upon the victim, the kind of weapon used and the location of the victim or attacker during the incident.

DNA Fingerprinting

DNA fingerprint profiling helps identify the victim or perpetrator.

DNA sequencing, which is the succession of genetic codes in living cells, are unique in every organism. Forensic specialists trace the sequence and use it to identify an individual. They scan 13 DNA regions and make a DNA profile of that person, or a DNA fingerprint. CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) is a blend of DNA technology and software to store DNA profiles and locate DNA matches. Police and scientists can then link matches to crime scenes.

Computer Simulation of a Crime Scene

Computer programs present a crime scence in 3D imagery.

Scientists use special computer software such as Crime Zone, iWitness or SpheroCam HDR to visualize a re-enactment of a crime scene in a two or three-dimensional display. The software evaluates digital pictures and data taken from the site and simulates a 3D virtual reality of the event. Panoramic images are printed and presented on a screen before a court, allowing the jury to view the events of the crime.

References

• Journal of Forensic Sciences: A Fully Three-Dimensional Method for Facial Reconstruction Based on Deformed Models
• Connecticut State Police Forensic Science Lab: New Forensic Odontolgy Tools
• J. Slemko Forensic Consulting Inc.: Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Tutorial
• Federal Bureau of Investigation: CODIS Combined DNA Index System
• Officer.com: Doug Hanson, Ph.D.

Resources

• Research Channel: Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Anthropology