NCJ Number
207720
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 49 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2004 Pages: 1332-1334
Date Published
November 2004
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a device and a method that permits the accurate evaluation of evidence in three dimensions, beyond the two-dimensional constraints of a photograph, without altering the universally accepted ABFO (American Board of Forensic Odontology) #2 scale, which was developed in 1987 to give the forensic odontologist a reproducible way to rectify and measure bitemarks that had been documented photographically.
Abstract
The scale was designed to allow for life-size reproduction with a known degree of accuracy in its vertical and horizontal dimensions. Additionally, its three circles can allow for the correction of an oblique camera angle and prevent distortion in the enlargement process. The next step in the evolution of forensic documentation would be the three-dimensional analysis of evidence. This paper describes a new imaging guide or evidence marker that can broaden the application of the ABFO #2 scale to three dimensions. This evidence marker is described in its entirety in the U.S. Patent application US 2004/0020089. This paper provides a verbal and photographic description of the imaging guide. In addition, global positioning satellite (GPS) technology allows for the spatial mapping of geographic locations. Actual geographic coordinates may be determined with the use of these sensors on the imaging guide. Location of victims, evidence, and their spatial relationships can then be mapped with the use of standard GPS devices. 3 figures and 6 references