NCJ Number
223784
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 35 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2008 Pages: 52,54-58,60
Date Published
July 2008
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the effectiveness and utility of video forensic tools in retrieving accurate information from surveillance and security video from a crime scene, as well as the nuts and bolts in establishing a video forensics lab.
Abstract
Today, the average person in the United States is caught on video approximately 30 times a day. In order to properly investigate the majority of crimes, it is necessary to be able to examine and enhance video from a variety of formats and sources. The tools for this technology allow investigators to preserve, evaluate, and enhance video evidence. Improper retrieval of video evidence can limit image detail significantly causing the true value of the evidence to be lost. Law enforcement agencies can get much needed assistance from a variety of video forensic tools. There are a number of video solutions available. Cognitech, Inc. offers court-approved forensic video/image processing and forensic video measure software with its Tri-Suite “VIVA-AM.” Intergraph offers a set of video forensic software tools through its Video Analyst product. Ocean Systems offers dTective, a suite of tools that can run both inside and outside the Avid system. Lastly, Salient Stills offers VideoFOCUS Pro v3.0 (VFPro 3.0) an upgrade to the company’s flagship video forensic software, VideoFOCUS Pro. When creating a video forensics lab, agencies must define their needs and set up the lab accordingly. In addition, departments must consider core equipment needs, as well as budgeting for training. In sum, video forensic systems and their capabilities should be thoroughly researched.