Research Projects Archives | Foster+Freeman https://fosterfreeman.com/category/research-projects/ Improving the Quality of Forensic Evidence Thu, 04 May 2023 14:37:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://fosterfreeman.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/cropped-Site-Icon-32x32.png Research Projects Archives | Foster+Freeman https://fosterfreeman.com/category/research-projects/ 32 32 Crime-lite Applications: Visualisation of fluorescence from STK Sperm Tracker™ https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-fluorescence-from-stk-sperm-tracker/ https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-fluorescence-from-stk-sperm-tracker/#respond Wed, 01 Feb 2023 13:53:45 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-illicit-substances-copy/ A collaborative study between foster+freeman and L’Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale (IRCGN).

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CRIME-LITE APPLICATIONS //

Utilising Crime-lites for the visualisation of fluorescence from STK Sperm Tracker™

A collaborative study between foster+freeman and L’Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale (IRCGN).

Background

Introduction

The identification of a body fluid detected on a piece of forensic evidence can be critical to an investigation. Identification of the location of a body fluid not only allows forensic scientists to perform crime scene reconstructions but also provides further support in identifying the most appropriate samples for DNA analysis.

STK SPERM TRACKER™

STK Sperm Tracker™ was developed in a collaboration between AXO Science and the French National Institute of Scientific Police (INPS). Spermtracker technology is commercially available in multiple formats; a lab-based paper or a spray which can be utilised directly at a crime scene or directly on skin. If a semen stain is present on the substrate, a UV-A forensic light source can be applied to visualise the fluorescent emission from the STK paper. A positive result for semen is indicated by a clear and bright-blue fluorescent result on the STK paper. A collaborative study has been conducted alongside L’Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, with the aim to determine whether Foster + Freeman UV Crime-lite light sources are suitable for promoting visualisation of fluorescence from STK paper. 

Recommendations

The manufacturer specification recommends that a UV light source with a peak wavelength of 365-366nm should be used to promote fluorescence emission from their STK products. All Crime-lite light sources featured within this study utilise UV with a peak wavelength of 365nm (bandwidth 350-380nm). Samples were initially visually checked throughout the study with the Crime-lite 82S UV light source and then illuminated and imaged with both the Crime-lite AUTO and the Crime-lite ML PRO.

Performing real-time visible, fluorescent, and infrared examinations, the Crime-lite AUTO can quickly reveal the presence of evidence

Using the Crime-lite ML PRO to examine semen staining on evidence within the laboratory.

Test Conditions

The study was conducted at foster+freeman Headquarters in Evesham, UK. Ten samples were provided by L’Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale for the collaborative study: five single-source samples containing semen on fabric and five mixed-source samples containing semen and blood on fabric. foster+freeman provided a single-source control sample of semen on fabric.

The STK paper was cut to twice the dimensions of the fabric to be analysed. The unplasticised surface of the paper was then wetted uniformly with distilled water using a spray bottle with the paper briefly suspended to remove any excess water. The fabric was placed onto the wetted side of the paper, before the STK paper was then folded in half ensuring the fabric was sandwiched between it. Pressured was applied to the STK paper utilising a weighted object of 5kg and the sample was then left for a period of three minute within the pressurised environment. After the period of three minutes, the weight was removed from the sample and the fabric material was imaged. 

The Crime-lite 82S UV light source was utilised first to illuminate the fluorescence emission from the STK paper so a visual assessment could be made as to whether a positive result had been achieved. The samples were then illuminated and imaged with both the Crime-lite AUTO and the Crime-lite ML PRO. The Visible Pass filter (GG420 Long pass) was utilised on the Crime-lite AUTO and the GG420 Long pass filter was applied on the Crime-lite ML PRO to visualise the UV fluorescence being emitted by the STK paper in the images.

Sample Images

Conclusions

All ten samples provided by L’Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale produced a fluorescence signal emitted from the semen staining which could be observed when viewed visually with the Crime-lite 82S UV light source and when imaged with the Crime-lite AUTO and the Crime-lite ML PRO. The foster+freeman control sample also provided an observable fluorescence reaction from semen staining when viewed under the same three light sources. Some dark staining was observed upon illumination on some of the semen and blood mixtures, although this did not appear to interfere with the positive results attained from these samples.

When illuminated with a foster+freeman Crime-lite light UV sources (365nm), the fluorescence emission from STK can be visualised either with the naked eye or by utilising a GG420 Longpass filter either in goggle or camera filter format (in the Crime-lite AUTO, the GG420 Longpass is labelled as ‘VIS’).

This small collaborative study provides supporting evidence that the Crime-lite 82S UV, the Crime-lite AUTO and the Crime-lite ML PRO all provide a suitable UV light source (365nm) which can be utilised in conjunction with Spermtracker technology. 

Products Featured

Crime-lite® AUTO

The Crime-lite AUTO is the most integrated, comprehensive, and compact forensics digital camera solution in existence. Combining the latest forensic imaging technology with high intensity multi-spectral illumination, the Crime-lite AUTO is a complete solution for the search, detection, and capture of forensic evidence.

Find out more

Crime-lite® ML PRO

The Crime-lite ML PRO is part of a new generation of evidence screening tools, built to meet the demands of high-throughput forensic laboratories tasked with processing large quantities of evidence. With fully integrated UV-Vis-IR illumination and an ‘intelligent optics’ imaging system, the ML PRO can be used to mark-up evidence, detect the presence of a wide variety of different trace evidence, and can create an integrated examination report ready for court.

Find Out More
Crime-lite®ML PRO - Rapid Evidence Screening Tool for the Detection and Mark-up of Forensic Evidence  
The Crime-lite ML PRO is the first in a new generation of evidence screening tools built to meet the demands of busy forensic laboratories tasked with processing large quantities of evidence. With fully-integrated UV-Vis-IR illumination and an ‘intelligent optics’ imaging system, the ML PRO can be used to mark-up evidence, detecting the presence of bodily fluids, and locating minute fragments of trace evidence.

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-fluorescence-from-stk-sperm-tracker/feed/ 0 Crime-lite Applications: Visualisation of Illicit Substances https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-illicit-substances/ https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-illicit-substances/#respond Wed, 01 Feb 2023 13:18:45 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-the-use-of-bandpass-filters-in-forensic-examinations-copy/ The Crime-lite product range is suitable for the detection and visualisation of different types of drugs residues. This application note examines a variety of different drugs residues/adulterants under various light wavelength/filter combinations.

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CRIME-LITE APPLICATIONS //

Use of Crime-lites for the visualisation of illicit substances

Background

Introduction

An illicit drug may be characterised as an unregulated substance which is illegal to possess or distribute. Sometimes, this may also include prescription drugs which have been obtained illegally and are being consumed for non-medical reasons. There are many different types of illicit drugs, each of which can have a different effect on the human body. These can include stimulants (cocaine, MDMA), opioids (heroin, fentanyl), hallucinogens (Ketamine, LSD), and depressants (Barbiturates, GHB). Illicit drug residues may contain a mixture of the pure drug and a cutting agent/adulterant, which is often used to ‘dilute’ the pure drug down, in order to create larger quantities for illegal distribution. Common adulterants can include substances such as creatine, phenacetin, and caffeine. Criminal investigators may need to examine scenes containing illicit drugs and are sometimes required to detect and recover physical evidence of this type from the scene.

The detection of certain types of illicit substances can be difficult as sometimes only small amounts of drug residues will be found at a crime scene, and these may not always be easily visible to the naked eye. Crime-lite forensic light sources can be utilised as a non-destructive and safe method for the detection of some commonly encountered drugs or drug residues such as cocaine or heroin. Many drug residues will fluoresce when illuminated with Crime-lites, although different types of residues will fluoresce under different wavelengths of light. Therefore, it is important for examiners to utilise a range of wavelengths for the detection of drug residues during their investigation.

The complete evidence search tool
Performing real-time visible, fluorescent, and infrared examinations, the Crime-lite AUTO can quickly reveal the presence of evidence

This application note contains a set of images, which feature a variety of different drugs residues/adulterants and the Crime-light wavelength/filter combination suitable for visualisation.

The Crime-lite product range is suitable for the detection and visualisation of different types of drugs residues.

Fluorescence Illumination

Fluorescence occurs when visible light of a specific wavelength is absorbed by a substrate, which then emits light of a different wavelength. This emitted fluorescence is much weaker in intensity than the light that produced it, so filters are used to block out light not absorbed, in order for fluorescent emissions to be viewed.

A UV light source generates light which is invisible to the naked eye but produces visible UV fluorescence. A filter is not required to view UV fluorescence although a visible pass filter is also suitable for this application.

Filters

Bandpass Filters:

Sometimes, we may need to utilise more specialist filter types to visualise difficult evidence types. A bandpass filter will block all wavelengths shorter than a certain value but also all wavelengths longer than a certain value as well, allowing only a narrow potion of the spectrum to pass through. This can help improve the visibility of evidence which may not have previously been visible with the use of a standard longpass type filter. In other cases, it may simply increase the contrast which can be achieved between the evidence and the background, especially if a fluorescent background is interfering with the fluorescent emission from the evidence.

This is a representation of a bandpass filter. Bandpass filters block out all light shorter than a specific wavelength and also all light longer than a specific wavelength.

Application Images

Required Hardware for Visualising Illicit Drugs

Crime-lite® AUTO

The Crime-lite AUTO is the most integrated, comprehensive, and compact forensics digital camera solution in existence. Combining the latest forensic imaging technology with high intensity multi-spectral illumination, the Crime-lite AUTO is a complete solution for the search, detection, and capture of forensic evidence.

Find out more

Crime-lite® LASER

For the detection and examination of every last trace of forensic evidence; the new Crime-lite LASER provides intense, ultra-narrowband LASER illumination from a portable light source. Available in Blue (447nm) and Green (520nm) wavelengths, the Crime-lite LASER is capable of revealing evidence including latent and treated fingermarks, body fluids, and other invaluable traces of forensic evidence such as illicit drug residues.

Find Out More
The Crime-lite LASER combines advanced cutting-edge laser technology, together with robust safety features into a truly portable handheld device.
The Crime-lite LASER combines advanced cutting-edge laser technology, together with robust safety features into a truly portable handheld device.
Crime-lite®XHandheld, Multi-Spectral LED Light Source with Advanced Functionality
Crime-lite®XHandheld, Multi-Spectral LED Light Source with Advanced Functionality

Crime-lite® X

It has been demonstrated that by searching a crime scene using a wide selection of narrowband light sources, examiners are able to increase the quality and quantity of evidence detected. The Crime-lite X enables CSI and laboratory examiners to conduct a full-spectral search for evidence using a single handheld light source in combination with the PRO Vision Viewing Goggles.

Find out more

Crime-lite® 82S

The Crime-lite 82S range offers levels of illumination and ease of use that will almost certainly increase the quantity and value of evidence detected. Every Crime-lite 82S features 16 LEDs hand-picked for brightness and wavelength accuracy, ensuring consistent performance and a non-destructive method for detecting evidence.

Find Out More
crime lite 82s group
crime lite 82s group
Crime-lite®ML PRO - Rapid Evidence Screening Tool for the Detection and Mark-up of Forensic Evidence  
The Crime-lite ML PRO is the first in a new generation of evidence screening tools built to meet the demands of busy forensic laboratories tasked with processing large quantities of evidence. With fully-integrated UV-Vis-IR illumination and an ‘intelligent optics’ imaging system, the ML PRO can be used to mark-up evidence, detecting the presence of bodily fluids, and locating minute fragments of trace evidence.

Crime-lite® ML PRO

The Crime-lite ML PRO is part of a new generation of evidence screening tools, built to meet the demands of high-throughput forensic laboratories tasked with processing large quantities of evidence. With fully integrated UV-Vis-IR illumination and an ‘intelligent optics’ imaging system, the ML PRO can be used to mark-up evidence, detect the presence of a wide variety of different trace evidence, and can create an integrated examination report ready for court.

Find Out More
Forensic LASER for CBRNE applications
PRO VISION accessories are compatible with full-face respirator masks

Crime-lite® PRO VISION

Reveal more evidence using PRO VISION Goggles & Lens Filters

To maximise the potential of every investigation, examiners must be equipped with appropriate fluorescence viewing goggles and camera lens filters.

Crime-lite PRO VISION accessories are available in a wide variety of formats including clip-on filters for use with full-face CBRN respirator masks.

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-visualisation-of-illicit-substances/feed/ 0 Crime-lite Applications: The use of Bandpass Filters in forensic examinations https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-the-use-of-bandpass-filters-in-forensic-examinations/ https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-the-use-of-bandpass-filters-in-forensic-examinations/#respond Thu, 29 Dec 2022 13:25:27 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/dcs-5-applications-contrast-imaging-for-fingermark-photography-copy/ The use of bandpass filters with light sources may reveal evidence which was undetectable with the use of a standard longpass filter. Bandpass filters can also increase the contrast between evidence and substrate to better analyse its morphology.

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CRIME-LITE APPLICATIONS //

The use of Bandpass Filters in forensic examinations

Background

Fluorescence Examinations:

Fluorescence is a property of a material which means that it will absorb a particular wavelength of light and then re-emit this light shifted to a longer wavelength – this is known as Stokes shift. Many forensically relevant materials exhibit fluorescence at different wavelengths, which means that this type of examination is common within a variety of forensic  fields. The use of this application can be  a powerful tool in an investigators arsenal, from crime scene analysis through to biological examinations or treatments designed for fingermark development. The ability to locate fluorescent evidence types can be crucial for forensic investigations.

In order to stimulate fluorescence in the evidence it is necessary to use high intensity light sources, such as Crime-lite products. Generally speaking, the more intensity that is applied to a sample, the brighter the resultant fluorescence will be. However, the high-intensity light used to stimulate fluorescence in the sample will be much more powerful than the emitted fluorescence from the evidence.

Fig 1.
This  diagram displays  a representation of fluorescence occurring from the illumination of a blue Crime-lite . The fluorescence is emitted at a longer wavelength than the wavelength of the light source used.

It is necessary to use a filter to block out the incident light
(the light emitted from the Crime-lite)
in order to view the emitted fluorescence from the evidence.

Filters

Longpass Filters:

The most commonly used type of filter to view fluorescence is a longpass filter. This type of filter will block all wavelengths below a certain value – allowing the longer wavelengths to pass through and be visible to the viewer.

Images above: An example of fluorescence as exhibited by fibres. Under white illumination, the fires on this surface cannot be seen, however when illuminated with a green Crime-lite and viewed with a 590nm longpass filter, the fluorescence exhibited by the fibres allows them to be located and lifted from the surface for further examination.

Fig 2.
This is a representation of how a longpass filter allows us to see fluorescence. The illumination wavelengths from the Blue Crime-lite are blocked out by the filter, allowing only the fluorescence emitted from the sample to be viewed.

Bandpass Filters:

Some substrates may contain a background which fluoresces at a similar wavelength to the evidence. This fluorescent background may interfere with the ability to see contrast between the evidence and the background, in some cases it may completely obscure the visibility of the fluorescent signal. In these situations, it may be better to use a bandpass filter for the examination.

Fig 3.
This is a representation of a bandpass filter. Bandpass filters block out all light shorter than a specific wavelength and also all light longer than a specific wavelength.

A bandpass filter will block all wavelengths shorter than a certain value but also all wavelengths longer than a certain value as well, allowing only a narrow portion of the spectrum to pass through. This can help to improve contrast between the evidence and background, especially if a fluorescent background is interfering with the signal. This can be seen in the example images in Fig 4.

In some cases, the use of a bandpass filter may give visibility to evidence which was previously not visible with the use of a standard longpass filter, in other cases it may simply increase the contrast which can be achieved between the evidence and the background – potentially allowing the morphology of a stain to be more clearly visible.

  • a
  • b
  • c

Fig 4.
This is an example of a semen stain on a brightly patterned pair of male underwear. Photographed a. using white light, b. using a blue Crime-lite and a 495nm longpass filter, and c. using a blue Crime-lite and a 530nm bandpass filter.
This body fluid stain is much more clearly visible on this substrate when a bandpass filter is applied. When a longpass filter was used, the image clearly displays how the fluorescence from the background interferes with our ability to visualise the stain and the ability to observe clear contrast between the stain and the background.

Required Hardware:

Crime-lite Technology with Integrated Bandpass filters

Crime-lite® AUTO

The Crime-lite Auto is a highly portable, full spectrum camera which allows for the search, detection, and capture of forensic evidence at a crime scene or in the laboratory. It has been designed to help an examiner quickly and effectively screen, enhance and detect evidence across the spectrum from the Ultraviolet through to Infrared, incorporating three bandpass filters to support detection of evidence on more challenging surfaces. The product is built around a 20.1 MP camera with high intensity LEDs which have the capability to detect a range of different forensic evidence types.

Find out more

Crime-lite® ML PRO

The ML PRO is our full-spectrum laboratory-based screening tool. It has been specifically designed for the biology lab – incorporating full-spectrum illumination, automated filtration and an integrated reporting software feature. The ML PRO includes a range of bandpass filters to support examiners in detecting more evidence on challenging substrates and difficult backgrounds.

Find Out More
Crime-lite®ML PRO - Rapid Evidence Screening Tool for the Detection and Mark-up of Forensic Evidence  
The Crime-lite ML PRO is the first in a new generation of evidence screening tools built to meet the demands of busy forensic laboratories tasked with processing large quantities of evidence. With fully-integrated UV-Vis-IR illumination and an ‘intelligent optics’ imaging system, the ML PRO can be used to mark-up evidence, detecting the presence of bodily fluids, and locating minute fragments of trace evidence.
AARI - AMINO ACID RAPID IMAGER -Streamlined visualisation and mark-up of fingermarks
Dramatically increase the speed and accuracy of fingerprint visualisation on items of porous/semi-porous evidence using a fully-integrated detection and imaging system with intelligent AI Assist Ridge Detection software. Using AARI, tasks that previously took many hours of manual processing can now be achieved in minutes.

AARI®

The Amino Acid Rapid Imager (AARI) is designed for the photography of fingermarks developed on flat, porous evidence types. The user-friendly interface includes combinations of light sources and filters as pre-sets for commonly encountered fingermark treatments, to make the photography of fingermarks on these evidence types as intuitive as possible.

Find out more

Crime-lite Technology with Auxiliary Bandpass filters

Any of the well-established foster+freeman Crime-lite products can be used alongside auxiliary bandpass filters to maximise the contrast which can be achieved between fluorescent evidence and the substrate.

Crime-lite 2 Kit
Crime-lite 2 is arange of lightweight LED forensic light sources effective at short range providing intense, even and shadow free illumination for locating and examining evidence.

Crime-lite® 2

A range of lightweight LED forensic light sources which are effective at short-range in providing intense, even and shadow-free illumination, for locating and examining evidence. The Crime-lite 2 features a high-intensity LED with shadow-free, constant light output throughout battery charge.

Find out more

Crime-lite® 82S

The Crime-lite 82S is a powerful alternate light source which can be used at the crime-scene or in the laboratory. Each Crime-lite 82S features 16 high-powered LEDs to provide intense illumination across their specified waveband with up to 19W of LED output.

Find Out More
crime lite 82s group
crime lite 82s group
Crime-lite®XHandheld, Multi-Spectral LED Light Source with Advanced Functionality
Crime-lite®XHandheld, Multi-Spectral LED Light Source with Advanced Functionality

Crime-lite® X

The Crime-lite X combines up to 10 wavelengths of light to give a full-spectrum illumination tool in a single handheld unit. This allows an examiner to simply switch between different illumination bands and search effectively across the full spectrum using a single product.

Find out more

Crime-lite® LASER

The Crime-lite LASER is a truly portable forensic laser, giving the user access to intense, ultra-narrowband illumination. An investigation which incorporates both LED and complimentary LASER examination may prevent important evidence from being missed. A bandpass filter can be used in combination with fluorescence from narrowband LASER illumination to ensure the maximum contrast between the evidence and background is achieved.

Find Out More
The Crime-lite LASER combines advanced cutting-edge laser technology, together with robust safety features into a truly portable handheld device.
The Crime-lite LASER combines advanced cutting-edge laser technology, together with robust safety features into a truly portable handheld device.

Examples of Bandpass Filter Imaging

Biological Traces

This is an example of saliva on a bright pink coloured cushion, photographed with the Crime-lite AUTO. Image a shows the sample under the blue light source, photographed with a 495nm longpass filter, where the stain cannot be visualised due to the fluorescence being emitted from the background. When a 530nm bandpass filter is used, this background fluorescence is eliminated and allows the stain to be visualised (image b).

Saliva can be a particularly challenging body fluid to locate, due to the weak fluorescence it often exhibits relative to a substrate. In these cases, it can often be beneficial to use a bandpass filter to improve contrast between the saliva and the background.

Fingermarks

This is an example of 1,2-indandione treated fingermarks on a fluorescent background. When illuminated using a green light and viewed using a longpass filter (images a, c and e) on AARI, the contrast which is observed between the evidence and the background is reduced when compared to the images captured using the 568nm Bandpass filter on AARI (images b, d and f).

These images highlight the increased yield in detail which can be achieved when using a bandpass filter to photograph fingermarks. There is ridge detail missing from image e which can be observed in image f along the central vertical strip. The fluorescence from the background has been decreased, enhancing the extent of the visible ridge detail on this substrate.

Illicit substances

On this surface, there is cocaine mixed with a range of common adulterants (cutting agents). Image a has been captured using the blue light source with a 495nm filter on the Crime-lite AUTO. This type of drug is difficult to differentiate from some types of adulterants, as they can fluoresce at a similar wavelength. Image b shows the difference that can be observed when a bandpass filter is used to visualise the fluorescence. When a bandpass filter is used the fluorescence of the adulterants is eliminated, allowing only the fluorescence from the cocaine to be visualised. This can make the drug easier to see on difficult surfaces, even when a there are only small levels of the substances present.

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-the-use-of-bandpass-filters-in-forensic-examinations/feed/ 0 foster+freeman granted Human Tissue Authority licence https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-granted-human-tissue-authority-licence/ https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-granted-human-tissue-authority-licence/#respond Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:58:42 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/forensic-disciplines-combine-to-develop-new-fingerprinting-technique-that-could-help-spot-document-fraud-copy/ foster+freeman have been granted a licence by the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) for the storage of biological materials, which have come from the human body, for research, education and training purposes.

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foster+freeman Granted Human Tissue
Authority Licence

HTA Licence enables leading forensic innovator to further expand research capabilities:

foster+freeman, a leading manufacturer of forensic science equipment used by police authorities worldwide, has been granted a licence by the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) for the storage of biological materials, which have come from the human body, for research, education and training purposes.

“I’m proud to report this significant step, which further demonstrates our unwavering commitment to conducting high-level forensic research in order to drive new product development here at foster+freeman”

Robert Dartnell, CEO, foster+freeman

“As a company, foster+freeman has a reputation for innovation and for coming up with new solutions to age old forensic questions. But what really sets us apart is our commitment to conducting rigorous scientific research, and the provision of ground truth data that ensures the quality and consistency of results achieved when using our products to detect or examine forensic evidence.”

“Now that our facility in Evesham is covered by our HTA licence, we can further expand our research on a variety of new instruments designed to detect, visualise and examine biological evidence both at the crime scene and in the forensic laboratory”

“It is our understanding that foster+freeman is the only organisation within our market sector to hold such a prestigious and sought-after licence”

Robert Dartnell, CEO, foster+freeman
Foster + Freeman Headquarters.
foster+freeman headquarters in Evesham, Worcestershire, United Kingdom.

Meeting the Highest Quality and Research Standards

The HTA, created by the UK Parliament in 2005 as a non-departmental public body of the Department of Health, was set up to regulate the removal, storage, use and disposal of human bodies, organs and tissue for purposes such as research, transplantation, and education and training.

As a license holder, foster+freeman is subject to a rigorous inspection programme based on compliance, evaluation, and site visits – both notified and unannounced.

The rigorous assessment and application process was overseen by Dr Roberto King and Dr Cameron Heaton, who recognised the need to ensure the highest quality and research standards are in place for the organisation.

“Holding the HTA licence gives us the ability to further push our products to the limit during their development. It enables us to ensure products are absolutely “fit-for-purpose”, whilst conforming to both legal and ethical standards”

Dr Roberto King, VP of Product
  • Dr Roberto King
  • Dr Cameron Heaton

Ground Truth Data for Forensic Validation

foster+freeman have already identified several areas of key research that will benefit greatly from holding the prestigious HTA licence.

“Over the last year, we have sought to enhance our impressive scientific and applications data pools by compiling ‘ground-truth data’ to underpin both product and forensic sector where they apply. These significant pieces of work will serve to aid end users in understanding the capabilities of technology, whilst also helping them quickly move through their validation processes”

Dr Roberto King, VP of Product, foster+freeman

The HTA licence now provides foster+freeman with the freedom to better interrogate biological samples and establish ground truth data sets previously not possible with an unlicensed status.

The groundbreaking Crime-lite AUTO is an ideal tool for the detection and analysis of biological samples

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-granted-human-tissue-authority-licence/feed/ 0 Crime-lite Applications: Forensic Applications of Infrared Light https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-forensic-applications-of-infrared-light/ https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-forensic-applications-of-infrared-light/#respond Thu, 13 Oct 2022 11:27:02 +0000 https://heuristic-wozniak.88-208-242-9.plesk.page/?p=14126 Using Infrared light we can exploit the differences in absorption and reflection between substrate and evidence to reveal otherwise hidden information.

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CRIME-LITE APPLICATIONS //

Forensic Applications of Infrared Light

Before imageAfter image

Blood on fabric as seen by the naked eye (left) vs. under IR illumination (right)

Background

IR LIGHT:

Infrared wavelengths of light are those wavelengths that are too long for our eyes to see, above 700nm. Historically, this meant that we couldn’t view any of the information that could be gained from IR examinations. However, the use of an IR sensitive camera allows us to use these wavelengths to visualise many important evidence types.

Fig.1 The spectrum of light.
Light ranges from Ultraviolet (100-400nm) through to visible light (400-700nm) and finally through to IR light (700-1000nm)

IR EXAMINATIONS:

There is always more evidence at a crime scene than we can visibly see, and this is why we use visible examination techniques like oblique light or fluorescence examination which can be very effective. In order to maximise the evidence that we can detect and prevent missing important evidence, we also need to search beyond the visible and consider techniques like reflected infrared examinations.

Fig.2 the principle of reflected IR examinations.
IR light is directed at a surface and different parts of the surface will absorb and reflect differing amounts of IR. It is this difference in absorption and reflection which creates contrast on the substrate and allows us to see different evidence types which we cannot see using standard visible light examination techniques

For IR examinations, there are 3 key requirements:

– An Infrared light source
– An IR pass filter
– An IR sensitive camera

All of these are necessary to successfully visualise the differences in IR absorption and reflection, which can allow us to reduce the interference from dark or patterned backgrounds and clearly see the evidence on the surface. This effect is not always possible to achieve, not all inks and dyes reflect IR light, but exploiting the differences in absorption and reflection between our substrate and evidence can provide meaningful information that we otherwise wouldn’t have access to.

Required Hardware

Crime-lite® AUTO

The Crime-lite Auto is a highly portable, full spectrum camera which allows for the quick screening and searching of a crime scene. It has been designed to help an examiner quickly and effectively search for and detect evidence across the spectrum from ultraviolet through to infrared. The product is built around a 20.1 MP camera with high intensity LEDs which have the capability to detect a range of different evidence types.

Find out more
The complete evidence search tool
Performing real-time visible, fluorescent, and infrared examinations, the Crime-lite AUTO can quickly reveal the presence of evidence
DCS5
DCS5

DCS®5

The DCS5 is a fingerprint photography workstation, which consists of a high-resolution DSLR camera, specialist lighting modules and specifically designed enhancement software to allow the user to photograph any fingerprint that has been developed on virtually any surface. One of our lighting modules for the DCS-5 is the fls with over 300 wavelengths of IR light to allow the user to fine-tune the illumination to enhance the reflection in the background.

Find out more

Crime-lite® ML PRO

The ML-Pro is our full-spectrum laboratory-based screening tool. It has been specifically designed for the biology lab – incorporating full-spectrum illumination and automated filtration with integrated reporting software. The ML-Pro is equipped with IR LEDs and an appropriate filter to allow examiners to carry out IR examinations, quickly and efficiently in the laboratory.

Find out more
Crime-lite®ML PRO - Bench or wall-mounted multi-spectral imaging system, with automated filter selection, for the detection and mark-up of body fluids and other forensic evidence types.
Crime-lite®ML PRO – Bench or wall-mounted multi-spectral imaging system, with automated filter selection, for the detection and mark-up of body fluids and other forensic evidence types.

Relevant Evidence Types:

BLOOD

On light coloured substrates, blood is very easy to see. It appears as a dark red-brown stain and can easily be distinguished from the background on these substrate types. Dark and patterned backgrounds are the substrate types on which it is challenging to see blood as it can be hard to see the staining, and even more so to visualise any fine patterns – for example from blood spatter.

This is a shirt made from black material, and therefore it is challenging to find the areas of bloodstaining on this substrate using white light alone. When IR light and an appropriate filter are used, it is much easier to view the areas of blood staining – the dyes in the black material reflect the IR light and lighten, whereas the blood strongly absorbs the IR light and darkens. This allows us to not only locate areas for further testing but could also provide us with the valuable information of the pattern created on the surface when the blood was deposited.

ON BLACK FABRIC

Fig.3 An area of blood staining on a black surface photographed on the Crime-lite Auto illuminated with a white light and viewed with a visible pass filter (left) and when illuminated with near infrared light and viewed with a 780LP filter (right).

ON PATTERNED FABRIC

Fig.4 An area of blood staining on a patterned surface photographed on the ML-Pro using white light and a visible pass filter (left) and IR light with a 780nm long pass filter.

This highly patterned sample shows another application of IR light. In this case, all of the dyes used on this surface are reflecting IR light and all of them are lightening, which allows us to view the absorption of the blood on the surface. It’s possible to see the smaller area of staining in white light, but the larger stain in this case is almost completely obscured by the dark purple surface. Without the use of IR light it is challenging to see the blood on this surface at all.

CONCEALED EVIDENCE

Paints can be formulated in many different ways with a range of different pigment types. If these pigments reflect infrared light, it can be possible to see beneath paint to view evidence which may have been painted over in an attempt to conceal it.

In this example an area of the wall has been plastered over and repainted to match the rest of the wall. This is quite hard to see when using white illumination, but when IR light is used, the difference in absorption and reflection of the two areas is plain to see and allows this area to be more closely inspected as the contrast is alerting the examiner to an unexpected difference on the wall.

UNDER PLASTER & PAINT

Fig.5 An area on a wall which has been plastered over and repainted to match the rest of the wall photographed on the CL-Auto using white light and a visible pass filter and an IR light with a 780nm filter.

GUNSHOT RESIDUES

Gunshot residue is a very challenging evidence type to search for, as the possibilities of the composition are extremely varied. The composition of GSR can be dictated by not just the ammunition and the gun, but ammunition that has previously fired. One of the methods that has been reported has being highly successful for the visualization of gunshot residue is the use of IR light, as so many fabric types reflect IR light, but many components of GSR may absorb IR and darken.

ON FABRIC

Fig.6 A bullet hole surrounded by GSR photographed on the Crime-lite auto in white light with a visible pass filter (left) and with IR light and a 780nm filter

In this case, the GSR is visible in the singed area immediately surrounding the bullet hole, as well as the speckled pattern over the surrounding area. This is not possible to see using white light as the deposited pattern is so fine. Using IR light makes it possible to record how the pattern looks visibly prior to carrying out any further testing.

FINGERPRINTS

Fingerprints can be deposited and developed on a huge range of substrates, which is why the photography of fingerprints can be such a complex and challenging subject. Ultimately, our aim within fingerprint photography is to capture high quality images of the prints, allowing us to see as many features within the fingerprint as possible. Often, what is challenging is interference which arises from the background, IR reflection is one technique which may work to reduce this interference and improve the images that can be captured of a fingerprint.

Our fingertips and hands come into contact with a range of different surfaces every day and often these surfaces may have printing which eventually may interfere with treated fingerprints. In the case of this example, the fingerprint has been treated with black powder – a treatment which absorbs IR light – so when illuminated in the IR part of the spectrum, this part of the fingerprint still appears as dark. Whereas the dark text which interferes with the fingerprint initially in the white light, virtually disappears completely, as it reflects the infrared.

PRINTED SURFACES

Fig.7 Black powder fingerprints on a printed surface photographed on the DCS-5 with white light and a visible pass filter (left) and IR light (right)

FINE CONTROL

Fig.8 A fingerprint treated with black powder photographed on the DCS-5 using white light (left), 767nm light (middle) and 831nm light (right)

These images demonstrate the affect that can be achieved when fine control over the wavelength of IR illumination is possible. Initially, under white light there is printing and a pattern which interfere with the fingerprint. When 767nm light is used to illuminate the sample, most of the printing reflects the IR light, and in fact all of the interfering printing reflects the IR but when the illumination is changed to 831nm, almost total background removal is possible and the print can be seen as dark ridges on a plain background, making the identification of a print like this much easier – without the interference of a background pattern. This control is achieved by using the fls to select a single wavelength of IR light to use as the illumination for the DCS-5.

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/crime-lite-applications-forensic-applications-of-infrared-light/feed/ 0 Forensic disciplines combine to develop new fingerprinting technique that could help spot document fraud https://fosterfreeman.com/forensic-disciplines-combine-to-develop-new-fingerprinting-technique-that-could-help-spot-document-fraud/ https://fosterfreeman.com/forensic-disciplines-combine-to-develop-new-fingerprinting-technique-that-could-help-spot-document-fraud/#respond Fri, 12 Aug 2022 10:05:00 +0000 https://heuristic-wozniak.88-208-242-9.plesk.page/?p=14075 In a paper published by New Scientist, foster+freemans' Dr Roberto King outlines a new technique that could be important in cases of fraud.

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Forensic disciplines combine to develop new fingerprinting technique that could help spot document fraud

Fingermarks developed on gelatin lifters using the RECOVER system when (A) the finger was placed directly onto the gel surface, or fingermarks were lifted from (B) copper metal, (C) stainless steel, (D) glass and (E) paper.

NEW RESEARCH:

As one of the foremost innovators within the fields of fingerprint evidence and forensic document examination, researchers at foster+freeman have plenty of combined experience when it comes to developing new technologies for the investigation of crime.

However, while it is not un-common for existing methods and techniques to be re-purposed or enhanced to improve results, it is rare that two independent forensic disciplines combine so well as is the case with the company’s latest invention – a unique gelatin fuming technique for examining fingerprints on documents.

Combining a common fingerprinting practice (known as gelatin (gel) lifting) with a novel fuming technique (previously used to reveal fingermarks on fired ammunition) the new technique can be utilised by investigators to determine the sequence in which print details and fingermarks were added to a document.

Read Paper Online
RECOVER LFT - Unique to Foster+Freeman, this revolutionary new fingerprint development system was initially designed to reveal fingermarks on fired bullets and IED fragments.
RECOVER LFT – Unique to Foster+Freeman, this revolutionary new fingerprint development system was initially designed to reveal fingermarks on fired bullets and IED fragments.

In a paper published by New Scientist, foster+freemans’ Dr Roberto King outlined how the new technique could be important in cases of fraud or in other situations where someone is suspected of tampering with a will or contract by printing on top of it.

To use the technique, a technician places the gelatin over a fingerprint that overlaps with some printed text. They then peel off the gelatin and place it inside a vacuum-sealed glass box filled with a vapour of a chemical called disulphur dinitride. This vapour binds to the microscopic fingerprint ridges imprinted on the gelatin’s surface so that after a few minutes a blue-coloured fingerprint is revealed.

The team tested this process for a fingerprint that had text printed over it and another that was made on top of printed text. In the former case, the gelatin touches the text instead of the fingerprint first so the pattern developed at the end of processing was noticeably different – the team could tell which came first, the fingerprint or the text.

Gelatin lifted samples of fingermarks placed prior to printing an X (A), and on top of a printed X (B), developed in the RECOVER system.

PAPER HIGHLIGHT:

Importantly, the technique relies on pre-existing and widely available technology and would not require extensive further training. In addition to this, the new technique can be combined in sequence with other forensic techniques such as gelatin lifting and does not destroy the fingerprint.

Gelatin lifted samples of fingermarks placed prior to printing prose (A), and on top of printed prose (B), developed in the RECOVER system.

To read the paper in full please contact info@fosterfreeman.com or view the research online here.

A preliminary investigation of a two-step, non-invasive process to determine chronological deposition order of fingerprints and printed ink on paper.

Sci Rep 12, 12469 (2022)
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-16740-z
King, R.S.P., McMurchie, B., Wilson, R. et al.
Published: 21 July 2022
View Research Online

FEATURED PRODUCT:

RECOVER LFT

LATENT FINGERPRINT TECHNOLOGY

RECOVER LFT is a cutting-edge chemical vapor fuming process to develop fingerprints on a range of difficult surfaces including those that have been exposed to extreme heat (discharged bullet casings, for example) and items that have been washed ‘clean’ in an attempt to prevent identification. 

“This discovery gives us the ability to recover fingerprints from items that would have been previously difficult or impossible. It has shown particularly good results when used on fired ammunition cases, knives and contaminated metallic items”

Steve Bleay, MoD Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
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RECOVER LFT Training

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The RECOVER forensic fingermark recovery system by Foster+Freeman

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¿Se pueden utilizar los avances recientes en tecnología forense para resolver casos sin resolver décadas después del evento? En este seminario web, echamos un vistazo a cómo se utilizan los equipos forenses modernos para detectar y examinar rastros de pruebas cruciales y permitir a los investigadores cerrar casos sin resolver y hacer justicia mucho después de que se cometió un delito. Además de demostraciones en vivo, este seminario web incluirá entrevistas de examinadores forenses y expertos de la industria que explicarán cómo los avances en tecnología han cambiado el examen de la evidencia.
RECOVER LFT - Revolutionary forensic fingermark workstation.

Webinar – RECOVER – Technology for the Development of Impossible Fingerprints

Learn More
Cutting-edge technology to develop fingerprints on a range of difficult surfaces including those that have been exposed to extreme heat (discharged bullet casings for example) and items that have been washed ‘clean’ in an attempt to prevent identification.

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/forensic-disciplines-combine-to-develop-new-fingerprinting-technique-that-could-help-spot-document-fraud/feed/ 0 Longwave Reflected UV for the Enhancement of Cyanoacrylate Fumed Fingerprints https://fosterfreeman.com/longwave-reflected-uv-for-the-enhancement-of-cyanoacrylate-fumed-fingerprints/ https://fosterfreeman.com/longwave-reflected-uv-for-the-enhancement-of-cyanoacrylate-fumed-fingerprints/#respond Fri, 22 Apr 2022 14:22:29 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.a2hosted.com/?p=6489 Longwave Reflected UV for the Enhancement of Cyanoacrylate Fumed Fingerprints Research conducted by Foster+Freeman, has added further weight to the argument that Longwave Reflected-UV (LWUVR)...

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Longwave Reflected UV for the Enhancement of Cyanoacrylate Fumed Fingerprints

Research conducted by Foster+Freeman, has added further weight to the argument that Longwave Reflected-UV (LWUVR) imaging should be considered the first choice examination technique when searching for fingerprints on superglue-fumed evidence.

In a paper accepted for publication by Forensic Science International, tests on a variety of evidence types emphatically demonstrate the benefits of LWUVR imaging for the visualization of cyanoacrylate fumed (CAF) prints when compared with conventional techniques.

Plastic milk container with glossy label treated with CAF and viewed under
(A) white light illumination, (B) LWUVR, and (C) BY40 fluorescence examination

First, a longwave UV light source is directed onto the evidence. As the UV light hits the evidence, it is then reflected and absorbed in differing quantities by the cyanoacrylate fingerprint and the surface to which it has adhered. This difference creates a contrast between print and surface that is invisible to the naked eye but clearly visible when observed using a UV-ready digital camera.

In the tests, the LWUVR technique continually outperformed existing techniques and was demonstrated to be extremely simple, versatile and effective method of significantly enhancing fingerprint ridge detail.

Unlike the traditional method of using a fluorescent dye to create contrast between fingerprint and background; a process that can be messy, time-consuming, potentially damaging to evidence, and costly in terms of manpower and chemical usage, LWUVR imaging can be used immediately after fuming to reveal fingerprints of incredible quality with no further chemical treatment required.

Simple and non-destructive, the LWUVR imaging technique requires the examiner to search for and examine evidence within the UV spectrum.

View Full Paper

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/longwave-reflected-uv-for-the-enhancement-of-cyanoacrylate-fumed-fingerprints/feed/ 0 Visualising Fluorescent Fingermarks Developed Using 1,2 Indandione https://fosterfreeman.com/visualising-fluorescent-fingermarks-developed-using-12-indandione/ https://fosterfreeman.com/visualising-fluorescent-fingermarks-developed-using-12-indandione/#respond Fri, 22 Apr 2022 13:24:16 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.a2hosted.com/?p=6460 Visualising Fluorescent Fingermarks Developed Using 1,2 Indandione A study has demonstrated that by trimming the illumination wavelength and narrowing the viewing bandwidth, markedly better results...

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Visualising Fluorescent Fingermarks Developed Using 1,2 Indandione

A study has demonstrated that by trimming the illumination wavelength and narrowing the viewing bandwidth, markedly better results can be achieved when examining fingerprints treated using 1,2 Indandione.

When 1,2 Indandione was first proposed as a fingermark development reagent in 1997, researchers quickly saw its potential as a low-cost alternative to DFO for the development of fluorescent marks on porous materials including paper.

To achieve the best possible results, most research suggests that evidence is dipped, washed, or sprayed with a working solution of 1,2 Indandione dissolved in ethyl acetate and HFE 7100, before being heated to 100oC for a period of time dependent upon the method of heating.

Finally, the evidence should be examined using either a BLUE/GREEN (445-510) or GREEN (515-570nm) forensic light source with fluorescence being observed via an ORANGE viewing filter.

Superior Results
This study, using 1,2 Indandione to develop marks on white and brown envelopes, demonstrates that superior results can be achieved by ‘trimming’ the output wavelength of the light source and ‘narrowing’ the visible bandwidth of the viewing filter.

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  • Fingermark treated by a forensic examiner with Indandione and illuminated with a forensic light source to enhance the visualisation.
  • Fingermark treated with Indandione
  • Fingermark treated by a forensic examiner with Indandione and illuminated with a forensic light source to enhance the visualisation.

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