Evidence labelling
A reliable Polish system which facilitates handling of forensic evidence
Project title
Evidence labelling, registration and tracking using advanced geoinformation technology
Name of Beneficiary/Beneficiaries
Consortium: Central Forensic Laboratory of the Police and CYBID sp. z o.o.
Name of programme
SMART GROWTH OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME
Competition
Application projects
Project value
PLN 2,702,349.00
Funding value
PLN 2,143,475.10
Project delivery period
29 April 2016 - 28 September 2019
View the results of our work
What problem is addressed by the project?
Evidence and forensic analysis in a clear and realisable system are prerequisite to proper and objective investigation proceedings. Evidence materials can be extensive and complex - the system developed by the consortium composed of Central Forensic Laboratory of the Police (CFLP) and CYBID supports a full control over the process.
CYBID has been developing forensic software for many years now, and CFLP is the leader in crime scene examination and forensic evidence collection and analysis. With their shared know-how and a history of successful cooperation, it seemed a matter of time before they came up with the concept of a system which uses advanced solutions to automate and facilitate forensic processes, and to ensure the high quality, objectivity and safety of forensic data.
The underlying idea was to facilitate the integration of data obtained from scene analysis, and its visualisation, making sure it is clear and legible for all parties involved. This also includes monitoring physical evidence from collection on the scene to and throughout the evidence process, along with laboratory examination.
Appropriate technical support in reconstructing the scene of the crime plays a key role in the evidence proceedings that follow - every police officer knows that. Our system combines many different imaging, measurement and positioning technologies and tools: from laser measurements to UAV scene examination. The equipment can be used on an as-needed basis. What is important is that the differently obtained results can be compared and analysed to draw conclusions.
The system is positioned to improve the crime detection rate and to provide shorter investigation times. This will be achieved by providing objective and irrefutable evidence, and ensuring its security.
There are similar solutions elsewhere in the world, although technology is naturally developing at a rapid pace, and the latest achievements must be implemented in forensic methodologies. Our system ensures it in full through its flexibility. We have also focused on a modular solution, i.e. one which can function in various configurations: for instance, the system can be adapted to suit the needs of police units across various levels.
Who uses the project results?
The project may be of little relevance to an average citizen. However, it should be kept in mind that people do not feel safe only because nothing wrong happens to them - it is also important to know that once something bad happens (theft, car accident, robbery, etc.), the matter will be investigated and dealt with promptly and objectively. The awareness that the police as well as other actors involved (the justice system, expert witnesses, insurance companies) have modern equipment that suits their needs and a coherent system providing objective documentation on evidence can, in our opinion, serve to improve the sense of safety of each citizen.
What was the greatest challenge during project implementation?
Numerous challenges occurred in relation to integrating various technologies. The greatest challenge was the development of algorithms for detecting encoded photogrammetric markers on photographs, which facilitate the improvement of photograph parameters, performance of photogrammetry transformation and positioning photographs and traces recorded on photographs.
Our advice for other applicants
Our history of cooperation with NCBR leads us to believe that once you have an idea, you need to make it reality. It is worth relying on people with passion. Formal matters can be a major issue, there is no way around them, but we should consider them as minor obstacles to be overcome. Once we manage to put the potential of scientists and engineers to good use, success will be within arm's reach - I consider this to be the motto of our project, which we wish to share with other applicants.