Technical note integrated digital incident report encompassing crime scene visualisation Non-Invasive autopsy

The first workflow consists of obtaining fisheye images from the crime scene using standard DSLR Camera placed on a calibrated, leveled tripod with a pano-rotator head. Each part or area of the crime scene is digitized by capturing four images, at 0°, 90°, 180° and 270° in a consecutive manner. One set of four fisheye images are then stitched into a panorama. Multiple panoramas are interlinked by inserting hot spots that creates a virtual walkthrough for the investigating team. The closeup macro-images of all available evidence is embedded into the specific location from which they are recovered. Documents such as police report, videos such as CCTV footages, audios of scene including witness statement, notes by CSI staff can also be integrated into the final published report. The second workflow involves placing the body(s) from the crime scene into a radiolucent body bag, then shifting them to the mortuary. Upon registration, they undergo the procedure of Whole Body Scanning by a Multi-slice CT Scanner utilizing appropriate scan protocols. Usual collimation obtained is a slice thickness of 0.5 to 0.625 mm, dicom images. The coaxial dicom images are reconstructed into a 3-dimensional virtual body that would be analysed by the Forensic Pathologist using the image analysis software. It is possible to look at the sagittal, coronal and axial plane using Multiplanar reformation. Analysis is carried out by digital dissection of various layers, skin to bone, and all the three cavities in an extensive, comprehensive manner. Relevant positive findings are recorded in still images and video format by the software, which is automatically inserted into the final draft report for review. From the pathological point of view, the body remains within the body bag, findings like stab injuries and bullet tracks are accurately visualized and documented rather than probing them using blunt probes. Findings of air embolism, vertebral column injuries, complete skeletal survey in case of fall from heights, calcium scoring of coronary arteries can be done, which are impossible by classical autopsy. The chain of custody is preserved, second opinion can be provided by another expert using tele-forensics, remote viewing of the case. Such reports are valuable tools for medical education and research. The final integrated Digital Incident Report consists of the 360° crime scene documentation with embedded data along with the non-invasive virtual autopsy report with multi-planar and 3D volumetric images, demonstrating pertinent findings. Based on the above it would be empowering for the Forensic Scientists & Pathologists to arrive at a conclusion of, cause and manner of death.

This method on initial comparison is much superior, value based rather than the traditional CSI reports of disparate images and conventional autopsy with extensive dissection. Consultants Forensic Medicine, Science& Quality, Witty Charman CoTS, Malaysia Head, Pathology Division, International Medical University, Malaysia