Location of Latent Forensic Traces Using Multispectral Bands

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Optical Imaging
• Digital Forensics

Background:

• Commercial multispectral capture devices are expensive and not field-ready for crime scene investigations.
• Existing forensic techniques may not reveal all latent evidence effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a cost-effective, field-adaptable multispectral imaging system for forensic trace detection.
• To demonstrate the capability of a modified digital SLR camera in revealing latent forensic evidence invisible to the naked eye.

Main Methods:

• Modification of a digital SLR camera for capturing images beyond the visible spectrum.
• Strategic use of wavelength filters, capturing angles, and illumination sources.
• Application of the system in real-world forensic scenarios, including bloodstains, tattoos, and device patterns.

Main Results:

• Successful detection of latent forensic traces, including bloodstains, hidden/erased tattoos, and unlocking patterns on mobile devices.
• Demonstration of the system's validity across diverse forensic case types.
• Validation of the non-invasive optical procedure for latent evidence location.

Conclusions:

• A modified digital SLR camera offers a viable, non-invasive solution for forensic multispectral imaging.
• The developed procedure enhances the capabilities of forensic units in locating latent evidence at crime scenes.
• Multispectral inspection presents a promising avenue for operational forensic units.