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Facial Image Comparison of Crime Suspects Using Video Superimposition

NCJ Number
162594
Journal
Science & Justice Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: (January/March 1996) Pages: 27-33
Author(s)
P Vanezis; C Brierley
Date Published
1996
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses facial image comparison using video superimposition and the problems connected with use of that technique.
Abstract
Facial image comparisons currently involve techniques which employ morphological or anthropometric methods or a combination of both. Such methods come under the generic term facial mapping. The technique described in this paper uses both parameters. Facial image comparison using video superimposition was used to examine 46 crime suspect cases over a period of 2 years. Material submitted from the crime scenes included original videotapes and copies from fixed security camera systems and from handheld cameras; still photographic prints made from video recordings and from fixed security cameras taking still images; and surveillance photographs from cameras taking still images. Suspect images included custody and surveillance images (still photographs or video recordings); and family snapshots, passport and other document or official photographs. The video superimposition technique was found to be extremely useful in selected cases, while in other cases it was of partial or little value as identification evidence. Tables, figures, references