digital cameras

[cwvk]

i have a question for those that are using digital cameras for evidence, actually many. what type of cameras are you using and do you find them more efficient than the standard 35mm. obviously the standard for major crime scenes but for the "petty BS" stuff, how is it working for you. our department is looking at going digital along with possibly a program for booking.

any and all responses appreciated.
cw

[williamssd]

I'm not in LE yet, but I did work as an intern with Apple Computer for three years.

You most likely are using Windows-based hardware/software, but Apple's QuickTime VR (virtual reality) Authoring Studio software would make a great addition -- depending on your dept.'s needs.

I've given briefings/presentations to LE people on the use of QTVR in law enforcement (briefing tool, archiving tool, evidence presentation in court/virtual reality crime scenes, etc.). Just another thing to consider, plus the new cubic stuff is awesome.

As for cameras, my recommendation would be Carl Zeiss lens (at least), 3.34 megapixel (they're coming down in price now), must have USB connectivity (Firewire/1394 would be even better), and it should have at least 128MB memory modules (avoid the floppies/built-in CD-R's), and I would recommend an extra memory module or two for each car that carries a camera. I would also think that Sgt's cars should have a separate laptop for dumping photos to -- should be needed too often, but just in case.

If you want me to do any more "research" for ya', PM me.

- Steve

[nsedet]

Digital cameras are great for non-crime scene purposes. They are especially good for criminal intelligence, and having 'mug shot' photos stored digitally can give you a capability of more easily being able to set up a photo lineup. You can share information via email or disk (within reason, operational security and privacy are considerations). If your department requires that your c/s photos be maintained in evidence, having digital images (in addition to the 35mm pictures) will allow you to more easily review the crime scene. You can tell instantly how your photo looks, which is an advantage over 35mm, and you can reprint images easily as many times as needed (which is an advantage over instant cameras). Also, if you have a subject's photo stored on file, it makes it much easier to put together a wanted poster. Some local departments in WA have gone to digital cameras for ALL of their photography, and apparently have not had any problems with it. I'm not certain what type of camera I use, and we just added a new one to our inventory, but I can find out.

[sgt. w-2]

I think you have to check with your courts. There isn't much case law right now on digital vs 35mm. I'm in a small department but we use digital cameras. The argument at one time was that digital pictures can be altered. However, 35mm pics have been altered too since the 1960's.

I think digital is much easier to use as you can see if the photo came our right then and there. I think it is easier to use in court and easier to store. I'm pro-digital.

[cwvk]

we too are a small department, therefore the price is an issue...to give a little additional information, i have a computer background and am the "tech geek" for the department. i have been trying to get them to go digital for some time. each car is equipped with a terminal which is an IBM laptop running windows based software. so to answer one of the questions, no problem for downloads. as far as i know now, and going to confirm that with the local DA, digital is no different than 35mm in regards to "altering". just be able to say, "yep that is as it was when i took it." our evidence, as most i am sure is, is with a strict chain of custody. that i do not see a problem with.

i guess, after a long babble, what is everyone using. my follow up question after researching some of the cameras, some to be terrible on batteries or even battery life (for the rechargeables). anyone else have this problem.

we also plan to implement this with a booking program and also to do our own id cards, mug shots, the typical. thoughts ...suggestions..etc..

i have hit nearly all review sites on the web but have not found information i like that would pertain to this use of the camera. thanks again.