The main objective of this Action, entitled ‘MULTI-modal Imaging of FOREnsic SciEnce Evidence (MULTI-FORESEE)- tools for Forensic Science’, is to promote innovative, multi-informative, operationally deployable and commercially exploitable imaging solutions/technology to analyse forensic evidence. Forensic evidence includes, but not limited to, fingermarks, hair, paint, biofluids, digital evidence, fibers, documents and living individuals. Imaging technologies include optical, mass spectrometric, spectroscopic, chemical, physical and digital forensic techniques complemented by expertise in IT solutions and computational modelling. Imaging technologies enable multiple physical and chemical information to be captured in one analysis, from one ‘specimen’, with information being more easily conveyed and understood for a more rapid exploitation. The ‘enhanced’ value of the evidence gathered will be conducive to much more informed investigations and judicial decisions thus contributing to both savings to the public purse and to a speedier and stronger criminal justice system. Lack of knowledge sharing, standardised protocols and communication between Academia, End Users and industry has been a barrier to translational science in this field; the Action will use the unique networking and capacity-building capabilities provided by the COST framework to bring together their knowledge and expertise; this is paramount to engage in a synergistic approach to boost imaging technological developments, allowing scientifically sound, highly reliable and multi-informative intelligence to be provided to investigators, prosecutors and defence. COST support is crucial to conquer the challenge on short term basis and to provide a legacy to Europe to advance knowledge for the deployment of cutting edge, innovative and implementable imaging forensic science.
Imaging technologies - Forensics - Evidence - Digital framework - Analytical Science
