NCJ Number
208919
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 32 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2005 Pages: 100,102,104,105
Date Published
February 2005
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes an experiment conducted in Massachusetts to test the feasibility of using geographic information system (GIS) software to provide aerial views of crime scenes to aid in an efficient coordination of resources sent to the scene.
Abstract
The use of computer technology, mapping programs, and the Internet enhances the GIS application. GIS stores, manipulates, assembles, and displays graphic files and databases, producing three-dimensional images known as orthophotos. The operator can choose locations and overlay the data elements, producing numerous aerial images that include locations of rivers, streams, coastal regions, topographical maps, and buildings. Massachusetts has a free, public access, government Web site that uses various aerial GIS mapping programs. Five of the programs have sufficient information to supply an investigator with unique images of an investigation scene. The author of this article used GIS software and data from the Web site to produce aerial views of five incidents reported by various news media. Listed within each story was a specific location, town, address, or a general area where the incident occurred. Various GIS maps were then produced from the Web site (www.state.ma.us/mgis/mapping.htm). Aerial and topographical maps provide usable detail to orient investigators to routes, buildings, streets, and other terrain. In knowing about access to waterways, buildings, and roads for use by various types of vehicles prior to dispatching resources to the scene, responses and investigations can be more efficiently and effectively deployed. The article presents the five aerial images accompanied by a description of the incident at each location.