NCJ Number
188697
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 28 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2001 Pages: 42-47
Date Published
May 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of biometrics to verify suspect identification.
Abstract
Biometrics is the science of using unique physiological or biological characteristics (e.g., fingerprints, voiceprints, facial recognition systems, and iris identification) to verify identity. It can help law enforcement officers identify criminals and wanted persons quickly, safely, and while mobile. The article discusses the use of fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris identification and some advantages and shortcomings of each as a forensic technique. In biometrics technology today, speed and accuracy are tradeoffs. If agencies are seeking extremely high accuracy, they may have to wait for the information. For agencies willing to accept a lower threshold of accuracy, the technology is much faster. In many cases, image-based biometric systems will return possibles, and expert technicians will determine which, if any, is actually a match. The article concludes that the future of biometrics in law enforcement lies in a combination of technologies to ensure accuracy and to provide a double-check. As manufacturers upgrade their products and police departments expand their databases, the systems will work more smoothly, quickly, and with fewer problems.