Application of close range photogrammetry in crime scene investigation (C.S.I) mapping using iwitness and crime zone software

Abstract

Crime scene investigators in law enforcement were always looking for new methods to make their job easier, more accurate and more efficient. To process a crime scene in an organized approach, one of the vital stages in processing is scene documentation. The scene documentation is an important stage because it is visualization record of evidences on the scene. Hence, this study focus on how to do the scene documentation by mapping those evidences using the iwitness and crime zone software. Close range photogrammetry method used in iwitness software to help crime scene investigators dealing with non contact measurement data acquisition. Physical evidences on the crime scene were measured and verified with tape and laser scanner measurement. Then the output .dxf data from iwitness exported to crime zone in order to generate 3d visualization of the crime scenes whether it is homicide scenes, evidence and bullet trajectories. Combination of iwitness and crime zone software is a vital tool in forensic mapping applications for law enforcement and investigators. It provides the practical solution to mapping crime scene by using close-range photogrammetry methodology