Transforming forensic investigations with 3D laser scanning: The Forensic Alliance Program in Wales

In this panel discussion led by Amanda Troth, Product Marketing Manager at Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, Inspector Bob Witherall, Forensic Investigation Lead for Gwent South Wales Police, is joined by Sergeant Rhys Dickinson of Gwent Police and Sergeant Garreth James from the Collision Investigation Unit in Dyfed-Powys Police station.

Together, they share invaluable insights into their roles, their approach to forensic investigations and how cutting-edge 3D laser scanning technology aids their investigations.

The Welsh Police Forces delve into the formation and impact of the Forensic Alliance Programme, a game-changing initiative that seeks to streamline and standardise forensic functions across Wales.

This alliance is a collaborative effort between Dyfed-Powys Police, Gwent Police, and South Wales Police, aiming to create an efficient service for victims and maintain high forensic standards.

Dickinson outlines how this technology has revolutionised their workflows by demonstrating the significant benefits of 3D laser scanning over traditional methods. Laser scanners’ ability to collect comprehensive, high-quality data in a single instance is beneficial in collision investigations on motorways, where return visits to the scene are impracticable.

Providing a real-life use case, Dickinson recounts a high-profile case involving the tragic death of two children, where laser scanning technology was instrumental in determining the point of impact between two vehicles. This technology enabled them to achieve this accurately and efficiently without physically repositioning the cars back together at the scene, thereby saving time, money and resources.

Dickinson states, “Laser scanning allows us to be more accurate, save time, and save money, and it's just making the workflows more efficient and fit for purpose. So, without the laser scanner, we just couldn't do it. It was just impossible.”

Overall, this discussion highlights how 3D laser scanning continues to transform the field of forensic investigations, demonstrating its critical role in securing vital evidence, enhancing accuracy, and improving efficiency in crime scene documentation.