OutSourcing Forensic Video Image Analysis

OutSourcing Forensic Video Image Analysis is a viable alternative to the cost of providing an in-house capability, which typically includes :

Capital outlay for a SPvI Workstation ˜ $125,000
               (SPvI = Software Processing video Information)

Man power allocation for analysis work and training

Continual technology updates;  hardware and software

Facility costs (analysis room, with accoutrements)

Out sourced cost per analysis, typically ranges from $400 to $500. This provides enhanced images on VCR tape, with the best images on glossy dye sublimation 8.5" by 11"hardcopy (the highest resolution, excepting of 35-mm or larger format slides). For courtroom presentation, glossy hardcopy dye sublimation prints are excellent jury material along with large screen video display of actual and enhanced images.( click to see Court Room Video Setup)

The real question; Is the caseload of the agency large enough to justify an in-house capability, or are the agency needs better served by outsourcing?  Many agencies have enough caseload for in-house Forensic Video Image Analysis, as with other Forensic Analysis activities.

 For other agencies, outsourcing Forensic Video Image Analysis is a viable approach. The outsourcing avoids capital outlay, in-house staffing, and facilities allocation, and obviates the need for continuing training. The agency only has to identify and select the best outsource available to them.

The outsource, of course, must satisfy the stringent evidential requirements of law enforcement and the Courts. For law enforcement, the results of Forensic Video Image Analysis should aid in the solution of the case. Investigators must be able to use the results of Forensic Video Image Analysis to further their goals. For the courts, Frye, Daubert, Federal Rule 702, must be satisfied. The results of Forensic Video Image Analysis must fulfill the requirements of acceptable scientific evidence in the courtroom.

Moreover, Forensic Video Image Analysis leads to plea bargains, since,

"No one recognizes themselves better in an enhanced image than the perpetrator",

and this is the most cost effective way of resolving (clearing) cases.

Then there is the matter of testimony. The outsource has to provide expert scientific testimony, satisfyhing Frye, Daubert and Rule 702. The expert witness presentation of evidence must be comfortable for the jury, the judge, and the attorneys. The Expert Witness acts as a courtroom instructor, explaining scientific results effectively.

Further, the outsource must provide both scientific rigor and professional integrity.

The agency merely seeks from the community the outsource that satisfies the requirements of the task.

I trust this discussion is beneficial to you.  Relevant material that addresses these points in regard to TREC’s ability to serve as an outsource for Forensic Video Image Analysis is included on this web site, i.e., Expert Witness Material, Awards & Acknowledgements, Existing SPvI Workstation Sites.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas R. Edwards, Chief Scientist

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