Topic: Advanced Technology in Crime Scene Documentation

Date:
Thursday, March 6 at 1:00pm EST

Featured Speakers:
Megan Descalzi (Baltimore Police Department), Carina Haynes (Houston Forensic Science Center)

The rapid advancement of technology makes integrating new tools into crime scene units essential for efficient operations. This presentation highlights how two organizations adopted drones and advanced 3D scanning to improve their units. Presenters will share insights into overcoming challenges and successfully implementing new technologies.

The Houston Forensic Science Center’s Crime Scene Unit has recently validated Matterport scanners, which use LiDAR technology to create digital replicas of crime scenes for accurate post-event measurements. These scanners are faster and more efficient than traditional methods. The presentation will cover the validation process, integration into the unit, and address concerns regarding cloud-based storage and security.

Drones (sUAS) are increasingly used in law enforcement to document crime scenes through aerial photography, 2D mapping, and 3D modeling. They offer a safer, more cost-effective, and efficient way to capture crime scenes for investigations and court use. This presentation will explore how the Baltimore Police Department’s drone program was established, its compliance with FAA regulations, and its applications to casework.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand how advanced technology integrates into crime scene work while meeting accreditation standards.

2. Learn how to navigate the challenges of onboarding new technology.

3. Summarize how drone technology can document crime scenes.

4. Understand the FAA’s role in drone operations in the National Airspace System.