NCJ Number
190847
Journal
Journal of Clinical Forensic Medicine Volume: 7 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 127-129
Date Published
September 2000
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of digital photography to record clinical forensic evidence.
Abstract
Digital photography enables a doctor to carry a small, lightweight camera, which is self-focusing, with a large view-screen, and to have it readily available either in the consulting room or at a suspected crime scene. It is not intended to replace crime scene diagrams, but does afford an efficient and accurately detailed record of the medical facts. The large viewing screen and zoom lens enable the camera to be held at some distance from the eye of the photographer while taking photographs of more personal or unsavory parts. Photographs may be viewed immediately on camera using a "playback" feature. The immediate recall of images is appreciated by the police during a post-medical debriefing, and increases their understanding of medical findings. Photographs that have been altered electronically are detectable, just as alterations of paper notes. The article includes technical descriptions of two models of commercially available digital cameras. It also suggests that the use of inexpensive digital images provides opportunities for peer group review and teaching, and the electronic transfer of images. These images provide objective evidence that will increase both lay and professional persons' understanding of forensic medical findings. Figure, references