SOP - Baltimore County Maryland Digital Enhancement · To provide a full range of digital image enhancement services to the Baltimore County Police Department, ... into the B.E.A.S.T

DigImg.fss DI1 4/30/02

BALTIMORE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT

FORENSIC SERVICES SECTION

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

FOR

DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT

REVISED April 30, 2002 Captain Joseph E. Burris Director Karen L. Irish Commander, FSS Executive Officer, FSS Christopher B. D’Amario Sergeant Robert Derbyshire QA/QC Manager, FSS Supervisor, Examination Unit Jason A. Birchfield Supervisor, Digital Enhancement Unit


BALTIMORE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT Forensic Services Section


DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION 4 1.1 MISSION STATEMENT 4 1.2 GOAL 4 1.3 OBJECTIVES 4 1.4 COMMUNICATION 6 1.5 STAFFING 7 1.6 RESPONSE TO CRIME SCENES 7 1.7 QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL 8 2. EVIDENCE HANDLING 9 3. GENERAL UNIT GUIDELINES 11 3.1 DIGITAL CASE PRIORITY LIST 11 3.2 PRINTING DIGITAL IMAGES 12 3.3 REQUESTS FOR LABORATORY EXAMINATION, FORM #88 12 3.4 NORMAL DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING TIMES 13 4. INTEGRITY 14 5. DIGITAL IMAGE ACQUISITION 15 5.1 DIGITAL CAMERA STAND 15 5.2 DIGITAL CAMERA SETTING 15 5.3 LOGGING ONTO COMPUTER 15 5.4 IMAGE CAPTURE 15 5.7 REVIEW OF DIGITAL IMAGES 18 6. DATA STORAGE 19


7. EQUIPMENT 7.1 INVENTORY 20 7.2 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 21 7.3 OPERATING MANUALS 21 7.4 SERVICE AND REPAIR RECORDS 21 7.5 DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT COMPONENTS (See APPENDIX I) 21 8. SAFETY 22 8.2 PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT 22 9. SECURITY 22 9.5 DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT SECURITY 23 10. REPORTS 24 10.1 DIGITAL CAMERA IMAGE CAPTURE 24 10.2 IMAGE ACQUISITIONINTO MOREHITS™ 24 10.3 REPORTS OF ENHANCEMENTS BASED ON FORM #88 25 10.4 MONTHLY UNIT STATISTICS REPORT 25 11. COURT 26 12. TRAINING 27 13. REFERENCES 28 APPENDIX I DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM COMPONENTS 29

BALTIMORE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT Forensic Services Section



DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 MISSION STATEMENT:

To provide a full range of digital image enhancement services to the Baltimore County Police Department, other Baltimore County and Maryland agencies, and the citizens of Baltimore County.

1.2 GOAL:

To provide timely and high quality digital enhancements to assist in criminal investigations, court presentations, and public relations requests.

1.3 OBJECTIVES:

1.3.1 To capture high quality digital images with digital cameras.

1.3.1.1 The mobile system allows a high resolution digital camera to be taken to crime scenes, or anywhere else that high-resolution images need to be captured.

1.3.1.2 A high-resolution digital camera is maintained on a copy

stand within the evidence processing area of the Forensic Services Section. After evidence is brought back to the laboratory, the evidence itself may be photographed with this digital camera. Then, after in-house processing, additional visualized evidence, i.e. fingerprints, can be photographed digitally.

1.3.2 To digitally capture images that may be not be viewable under normal

lighting conditions.

1.3.2.1 The high-resolution digital camera has the capability to record/capture images in the infrared range, allowing for images to be printed so they are visible.

1.3.2.2 The digital camera can capture fluoresced evidence/latent prints, which cannot be viewed in normal light.


1.3.2.3 The digital camera can capture images visualized with ultra-violet light, which cannot be seen in normal light.

1.3.3 To acquire digital images from a selection of video tape formats.

1.3.3.1 VHS, SVHS and VHS-COMPACT

1.3.3.2 High-8 format and standard 8mm film 1.3.3.3 Digital Video

1.3.4 To acquire digital images of items scanned by a flatbed scanner.

1.3.5 To acquire digital images from 35mm film, 35mm slides, medium

format, and 4 x 5 negatives by the use of a film/slide scanner and flat bed scanner.

1.3.6 To acquire digital images from compact disks/floppy disks.

1.3.7 To be able to transfer or receive digital images and data via a

fax/modem.

1.3.8 To enhance digitally acquired images with the image enhancement software.

1.3.8.1 Calibration software ensures that, when necessary, images

can be printed out at a 1:1 (one-to-one) or life size scale.

1.3.8.2 Encryption software encodes each image as it is acquired and ensures that the images produced through the enhancement software are not compromised/altered.

1.3.9 To allow immediate review of digital images on a computer monitor.

1.3.10 To print hard copies of original or enhanced images at a photo-quality

level, or lesser quality when necessary.

1.3.10.1 A dye-sublimation printer produces color images that are photo-quality.

1.3.10.2 A color laser printer produces a more cost effective near

photo-quality print.

1.3.10.3 A color LaserJet printer is available for field or in-house use


when images are needed at near photo-quality. These prints are of less quality than color laser printer.

1.3.10.4 A black and white laser printer is available when images are

needed which do not have to be printed out at full photo-quality.

1.3.11 To archive digital images and case data to CDs.

1.3.12 To distribute digital images and data to investigators, attorneys, or

other authorized personnel.

1.3.13 To operate and maintain the digital enhancement equipment, components, and supplies.

1.3.14 To maintain the records and files of the digital enhancement

workstations.

1.3.15 To provide the Department with information on new digital enhancement equipment and techniques.

1.3.16 To provide competent court testimony regarding the components of the

digital enhancement system, the procedures used, and an explanation of digital enhancement, its process and digital enhancement products to ensure the enhanced products are admissible in court.

1.4 COMMUNICATION:

1.4.1 All communications between the Examination Unit Supervisor, Digital Enhancement Supervisor, Digital System Administrator, Forensic Analyst and Crime Scene Unit staff shall be clear and concise.

1.4.2 To facilitate open dialog and information dissemination staff meetings

between the Examination Unit Supervisor, Digital Enhancement Supervisor and System Administrator shall be held when necessary. Information from that meeting will be passed onto all shift personnel as needed.

1.5 STAFFING:

1.5.1 The Digital Enhancement Supervisor shall be responsible for the digital


enhancement equipment, staffing and procedures. 1.5.2 The System Administrator will be responsible for the maintenance of all

the components of the system, and will contact the appropriate vendor when maintenance/repairs are required which are beyond the administrator’s knowledge and ability level.

1.5.2.1 A service contract covering all components of the system

and their integration will be maintained.

1.5.2.2 Users of the system who become aware of system irregularities will immediately notify the system administrator.

1.5.3 The Forensic Analyst and Forensic Services Supervisors will be

knowledgeable on all aspects of the system, including digital image processing and enhancements.

1.5.4 All Forensic Services Technicians will be knowledgeable in the capture and acquirement of images using the stand-mounted, high-resolution digital camera located in the Digital Enhancement area. They also may have been trained on all other aspects of the system, including digital image processing and enhancements.

1.5.5 Should the need for digital enhancements be required on any shift

when personnel trained on all aspects of the system are unavailable, it will be the responsibility of the Crime Scene Unit shift supervisor/ acting supervisor to decide whether to call back an off-duty fully trained Forensic Services Technician.

1.6 RESPONSE TO CRIME SCENES:

1.6.1 The mobile system, comprised of the portable high-resolution digital camera kit, laptop computer(s) and printer may be taken to any crime scene deemed necessary.

1.6.2 Use of the mobile system, must be authorized by the Crime Scene Unit

shift supervisor/acting supervisor.

1.7 QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL:

1.7.1 The Forensic Services Section QA/QC Manager will oversee the Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) of the Digital Enhancement unit. The QA/QC Manager can reject any product, supply, or material,


which fails to meet specifications or terminate any processing if a technical problem is identified. Appropriate notification must be made and the specific problem(s) documented.

1.7.2 It is the responsibility of anyone working in or for the Digital

Enhancement unit to report any quality control problem with any product, supply, or material to the FSS QA/QC Manager immediately and suspend using said item until appropriate action is taken by the QA/QC Manager. The Forensic Services staff will report any quality control problem(s) to the QA/QC Manager as needed. The QA/QC Manager, in conjunction with the Forensic Services Section Director and Commander, is the approving authority for the quality assurance/quality control revisions.

1.7.3 The FSS QA/QC Manager, in conjunction with the Forensic Services

staff will have the responsibility for developing and maintaining the Quality Assurance Program. Any changes will be made and approved through formal chain of command. Revised operations manual pages will be issued and dated documents will be stored in the appropriate archive files. Any affected Forensic Services staff will be notified of the changes and given the necessary training.

1.7.4 The Forensic Services staff has the responsibility for maintaining all

quality control documents (equipment logs, records, etc.). The QA/QC Manager and/or the Forensic Services Section Director will handle updating and reviewing of these documents.

1.7.5 As part of the Quality Assurance Program, each person designated to

be doing digital enhancements will be required to satisfactorily complete a digital enhancement competency test and an annual proficiency test.

1.7.6 All irregularities or problems associated with digital enhancement

components will immediately be reported to the Digital Enhancement Supervisor.

2. EVIDENCE HANDLING

2.1 All evidence handling procedures must comply with the rules and policies of the Baltimore County Police Department and the Forensic Services Section.

2.2 In order to render digital enhancement services on a criminal case, the


Forensic Services Section must receive a properly filled out Form # 88, “Request for Laboratory Examination”. A Forensic Services Technician may perform digital enhancement services without a Form # 88 on items he/she has collected. The Technician must document all digital work on the Form # 11, "Supplement".

2.2.1 Once a Form # 88 request is received the Forensic Services Office

Assistant will date stamp the Form #88 and log it into the Request Logbook.

2.2.2 The Form # 88 will be placed in a holding bin until a Forensic Services

Technician can check out the item from the Evidence Management Unit.

2.2.3 The evidence will be picked up from the Evidence Management Unit.

Proper Baltimore County Police Department forms procedures and chain of custody requirements will be strictly followed.

2.2.4 Hand Carried Evidence:

Evidence hand carried directly to the Forensic Services Section can be received only if the proper chain of custody documentation and a Form # 88 accompany the evidence. The Form # 88 will be date stamped and logged in the Request Logbook and the evidence will be entered into the B.E.A.S.T. Evidence Tracking System.

2.2.5 Evidence Submitted by Outside Agency:

For evidence submitted by an outside agencies, a CC# will be drawn and a Form #108, "Miscellaneous Crime and Incident Report", completed. A Form # 88 will be completed by the submitting agency. The Form # 88 will be date stamped and logged in the Request Logbook and the evidence will be entered into the B.E.A.S.T. Evidence Tracking System.

2.3 Digital enhancement evidence, which is received but not immediately

examined, will be stored in the “To Be Worked” drawer of the locked file cabinet located in the Digital Enhancement area.

2.4 Evidence in which processing has begun but is not complete will be stored in the “Currently Being Worked” drawer of the locked file cabinet located in the Digital Enhancement area.

2.5 Completed evidence waiting for return to Detectives or the Evidence

Management Unit will be stored within the “Completed” drawer of the locked file cabinet located in the Digital Enhancement area.


2.6 All digitally trained personnel will retain a key to the locked file cabinet located

in the Digital Enhancement area.

2.6.1 A spare key will be kept in the lock box in the Forensic Services Section Evidence Room.

2.7 All entries into the Digital Enhancement More Hits™ System will be logged into

the Digital Enhancement Logbook. When digital images are first acquired into the More Hits™ Image Tracking System, the left side of the logbook is filled out. When the acquired images are reviewed/enhanced by any digitally trained individual, he/she will complete the right side of the logbook.

2.7.1 The Digital Enhancement Logbook has the following columns on the

left side:

- Date - CC# - Offense Type - Tech Submitting - # of Images Acquired - Exam Type Requested

2.7.2 The Digital Enhancement Logbook has the following columns on the

right side:

- Name - Type of Work Completed - Date - Comments - Form #88 - Crime Scene - Court

2.8 If Forensic Services Technicians bring evidence collected at crime scenes into Forensic Services, they will initiate a Form #15, “Property Inventory”.

2.8.1 Evidence received, which is not going to be immediately processed

and enhanced, is to be stored in the Forensic Services Section Evidence Room.

2.9 When digital images of the evidence/latent prints have been acquired into the

Digital Enhancement System, the evidence itself will be properly handled.


2.9.1 When evidence/latent prints are photographed using the stand-

mounted digital camera, the left side of the Digital Enhancement Logbook will be filled out.

2.9.2 The evidence will be taken to the Evidence Management Unit for

storage, with the proper forms and chain of custody log filled out, or

2.9.3 The evidence will be returned directly to the investigator. In this case, the following will be completed: • Chain of custody log, • Release of the evidence entered into the B.E.A.S.T. Evidence

Tracking System. 3. GENERAL UNIT GUIDELINES

3.1 The Digital Enhancement unit will process and enhance images according to the following list of priorities.

3.1.1 Cases deemed a priority by the Digital Enhancement Supervisor.

3.1.2 Otherwise, the following priority sequence will determine the workload

order:

1 - Homicides 2 - Police Shootings 3 - Dated requests relating to other criminal investigations 4 - Dated requests relating to public relations or other non-criminal

matters. 3.2 PRINTING DIGITAL IMAGES:

3.2.1 Digital images can be written onto a CD and given to an investigator or an attorney.

3.2.2 Full photo-quality images can be printed with the dye-sublimation

printer.

3.2.3 Near photo-quality images can be printed with the color laser or color ink jet printer.


3.2.4 Proof quality images can also be printed with the color laser jet printer or the black and white laser jet printer.

3.2.5 Multiple images, of any quality, can be printed out on single sheets of

paper.

3.2.6 The color laser printer can print various paper sizes. Heavier grade paper (i.e., 32-pound) must be used with this printer.

3.3 REQUESTS FOR LABORATORY EXAMINATION, FORM #88:

3.3.1 The completed Form # 88 shall be submitted no later than 3 days after the work has been completed to the Forensic Services Technician’s immediate shift Supervisor for review and approval.

3.3.1.1 The Form #88 will be reviewed to

A. Determine if the nature of the request is clearly understood.

B. Determine if the technician has accommodated the service requested.

C. Check spelling, grammar and content of the Technician's report.

3.3.1.2 The Form #88 is turned back to the Technician after

approval. The Technician will send one copy to the requesting officer/detective, one copy will be kept in the Forensic Services Section file and the original will be placed in the outgoing mail bin for Central Records.

3.3.2 Digital images related to an Internal Affairs investigation are printed and then are hand-delivered to the requesting officer. One copy will be kept in the Forensic Services Section file.

3.3.3 When appropriate and authorized by Law, citizens may make an

appointment to view digital images on file with the Digital Enhancement unit. The citizen can then order the images they want printed. Fees are based on a fixed fee schedule. When the digital images have been printed, a receipt, the check and the digital images are then delivered to Central Records/Accident Records. There, the transaction will be logged and the digital images will be mailed to the citizen.


3.3.4 Central Records/Accident Records will clear requests from private citizens, attorneys, insurance companies, etc., notifying the Digital Enhancement unit, which incident digital images are to be printed. A letter from the requestor of the prints shall accompany the request from Central Records/Accident Records. The prints shall then be forwarded to Central Records/Accident Records for mailing.

3.3.5 Digital image viewing times are available by appointment only,

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1000-1200 hours.

3.3.6 The State’s Attorney’s Office may request prints of digital images related to criminal cases being prosecuted. These prints will be placed in departmental mail, where a county mail courier will pick them up and deliver them to the State’s Attorney’s Office.

3.3.7 Digital images will normally be printed in 5”x7” or 8”x10” format unless

otherwise requested. 3.4 NORMAL DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING TIMES:

3.4.1 Normal turn around times

A. Homicides 1-3 days B. Child abuse 1-3 days C. Police shootings 1-3 days D. Robberies 1-3 days E. Fatal fires 1-3 days F. Fatal accidents 1-3 days G. Internal Affairs 5 days H. Public relations 10 days

3.4.2 The processing of digital images based on Form #88 requests is

normally completed in ten (10) working days.

3.4.3 Digital images processed for citizens, attorneys, insurance companies, etc. are normally completed in ten (10) working days.

4. INTEGRITY 4.1 All personnel working with the digital enhancement equipment must do so

only with the intention of producing clear and accurate representations of those images. The express goal of the unit is to use the equipment as an efficient tool to produce images that are acceptable in court. Personnel must strive to produce images that faithfully reproduce the images originally


acquired; or, when enhancements are required to better reveal the image detail that is present, which might be obscured by distracting backgrounds, poor definition, improper lighting or color contrast. The desired result is to more clearly show detail that was always there, but just difficult to perceive.

4.2 The digital enhancement equipment will not ever be used with the intent to

deceive the recipient of images produced by the unit.

4.2.1 Details present in the original will not be eliminated with the intent to mislead, confuse or deceive.

4.2.2 Details originally not present in the original will not be added to any

image with the intent to mislead, confuse or deceive.

4.2.3 Terminology used to explain digital image enhancements must also reflect this concern for better visualizing details, which were always present. Therefore, words like “adjust” should be used instead of “alter; “modification” instead of “manipulate”.

4.2.4 Whenever an enhancement of the original image is attempted, each

step of the enhancement process shall be recorded in the image’s “enhancement history”. This will ensure that a final enhanced image will be able to be duplicated from the original authenticated image.

4.2.5 To ensure that digital data is not inadvertently lost through digital

compression procedures, digital capture and storage procedures will be done at “non-compressed” settings, when that option is available with the equipment. Otherwise, the setting for the least compression (“best” image) will be chosen.

4.2.6 All images that require processing or enhancements must be acquired

into the MoreHits™ software prior to processing. This procedure automatically encrypts each image with a code, which follows it and enables the image to be authenticated at any time after its acquisition to prove the image data has not been compromised in any relevant fashion.

5. DIGITAL IMAGE ACQUISITION 5.1 DIGITAL CAMERA STAND:

The digital camera stand will be covered with brown paper whenever photographing evidence that may:

A. Be powdered or chemically treated,


B. Be dirty, C. Be biohazardous because of the presence of blood or body fluids.

D. Pose a trace evidence cross contamination risk when sequential digital photographs are being taken of a number of items of evidence. In this situation, the brown paper will be changed after each item of evidence is photographed.

E. Cause scratching or damage to the stand surface.

5.2 DIGITAL CAMERA SETTINGS:

A. Aperture priority exposure mode B. F-22 C. Exposure compensation: 0

D. To bracket take additional exposures at exposure compensation(s) +1,+2,+3… for a brighter image or -1, -2, -3…. for a darker image.

5.3 LOGGING ON TO THE COMPUTER:

A. Click on MoreHits™ symbol, B. Select name, C. Enter password, D. Click “OK”.

5.4 IMAGE CAPTURE:

A. Click on “image”, B. Move cursor to “acquire”, C. Move cursor to “Twain” and click.

5.4.1 If a source other than the digital camera was last used to acquire

images, a screen prompt will appear. Click on “cancel”. 5.4.2 To correct this problem:

A. Click on “image”, B. Move cursor to “acquire”,

C. Move the cursor to “Twain set up”, D. Highlight “Kodak DCS Twain Version 5.9.3.1”, E. Click on “select”.

5.4.3 Screen image:

The screen image will now show one of two variations:

5.4.3.1 If a single large image appears on the screen:


A. Click on “preview”, B. Continue with directions 5.4.3.2.C.

5.4.3.2 If a series of small “thumbnail” images of previously captured

images appears:

A. Turn camera on, B. Color balance subsequent images:

1. Place the gray scale in the field of view. Light the

gray scale in the same manner in which the evidence will be lit.

2. Click on “take picture”, 3. Go to “balance” and select “click” and highlight. 4. Click on the gray scale thumbnail, 5. All subsequent photos will be properly color balanced,

as long as the lighting remains the same.

C. Position the evidence and gray scale so they are visible in the small rectangle in the field of view.

1. This may require moving the camera up or down on

the stand with the crank. 2. Two lenses are available with the digital camera:

• The 60mm lens should be used on most small evidence, like latent fingerprints.

• The 20mm lens can be used to frame larger types of evidence.

3. With either lens, the image with the best resolution is obtained when the image fills the frame of the capturing rectangle.

D. Click on “take picture”, E. Based on the quality of the thumbnail that is shown on

the screen, bracketing may be required to achieve better exposure,

F. Continue with step 5.4.4

5.4.3 Acquiring the Image:


Transferring the image from the digital camera to the computer, where it can be documented, enhanced if necessary, printed and stored.

A. Click on the thumbnail image desired, B. Click on “preview”, C. If the image is acceptable, click on “acquire”, D. Highlight the case number shown with the cursor, then enter CC#,

with dashes in place, i.e. 01-356-1234, E. Click on “OK” and “Yes”, F. Select “category” type and highlight, G. Select “image source” type - this will be “digital camera”, H. Click on “calibrate image”,

1. Click on two markings 1cm apart, or larger. The best calibration

will come from choosing a larger distance. 2. In “selected distance” enter “1" or how ever many centimeters

you chose. 3. Click on “CM”, 4. Click on “OK” and “close”.

I. If the image is of a fingerprint, click on “display fingerprint info”,

1. Select appropriate variables that apply, 2. Some are chosen by scrolling down a list of choices and clicking

on your choice, 3. Others are chosen by clicking and dragging a choice to the

appropriate box, 4. Click on “OK”.

J. In “image description” indicate the item type and/or number, the

location from which the print was obtained, and/or any other pertinent notes, as if documenting the back of a latent print card. The latent lift number should also be noted in this box.

K. In “case title” scroll and click on the appropriate selection, L. Click on “OK”, M. Click on “utilities”, then click on “authenticate”, N. For another photo related to the same case, click on “image” (step

5.4.3A), and continue.


5.4.5 When finished, click on the “X” in the upper right corner.

5.5 All cases captured with digital enhancement equipment have to be logged into

the Digital Enhancement Logbook. 5.6 If latent fingerprints are involved, a pre-printed Latent Print Envelope will be

filled out. The Latent Print Envelope will be placed in the Digital Enhancement in-basket with the latent prints.

5.6.1 Once the latent prints are enhanced they will be printed using the dye-

sublimation printer and placed into the Latent Print Envelope. The Latent Print Envelope will be sealed according the Evidence Packaging Guidelines and dropped into the Latent Print Box. The columns in the Latent Print Logbook will be completed.

5.7 REVIEW OF DIGITAL IMAGES:

5.7.1 Once the digital camera captures a digital image it is stored on the camera’s PC-card (hard drive). Bracketing of the image is in encouraged when needed. To capture additional images of the same item of evidence, vary composition, exposure, lighting, scale position, etc., until the optimal image is captured. All attempts can be viewed on the computer monitor immediately after the image is captured, so the operator knows what adjustments are necessary to produce an acceptable image.

5.7.2 Of the series of bracketed images, the operator “acquires” the best image into the computer’s database, as explained previously.

5.7.3 The Forensic Services Technicians will periodically check for newly

captured and acquired images.

5.7.3.1 Once the best of the series of bracketed digital images has been acquired on the computer’s database, the remainder of the images temporarily stored on the digital camera’s PC-card can be deleted.

5.7.3.1.1 Deleting images from the PC-card must occur

while in Photoshop. Attempting to delete images from the PC-card while in More Hits™ will lock up the computer system.

5.7.3.2 If the Technician feels another of the bracketed images may

be a better image with which to work, that image may also be "acquired".


5.7.3.3 The acquired images are then either

A. Printed or B. Enhanced and then printed and/or C. Archived onto a CD for permanent long-term storage

6. DATA STORAGE

6.1 A separate database back-up will be performed at least twice a month (biweekly). This provides a duplicate of all the images in the system entered since the previous archiving of digital data.

6.11 Digital Data Storage tapes will be utilized for this function. 6.1.2 Nova Store “Nova Backup” software will be utilized for this procedure.

6.1.3 The System Administrator will be responsible for this process.

6.2 On a periodic basis, but at least monthly, digital images and all the data related to those images will be permanently archived onto CDs.

6.2.1 The System Administrator will be responsible for this procedure.

6.2.2 Homicide and rape information will be kept separate from other

casework. Homicide and rape cases will have to be stored indefinitely. All other cases will be stored for five years.

6.2.3 Two copies of each CD must be created. One will be stored in a

secured location easily accessible to the workstation and another will be stored in a secured location off-site.

6.2.4 Accessing Archived Images:

A. Search for the correct CC#. B. Determine the correct volume and remove from the file cabinet of

archived CDs. a. The first two digits are for the year and the second two are for


the number archived CD for that particular year. (Example: “01-27” is the 27th volume made in the year 2001)

D. Place the CD into the CD-Write drive E. Under the "settings" tab check the box “display archived images”

and accept changes. F. Click “OK” twice G. Double click on "archived images". H. Selecting the “original” tab should bring up the image. I. It is very important to turn off the “display archived images” box

after the work is complete. 7. EQUIPMENT

7.1 INVENTORY:

7.1.1 An inventory log will be maintained for all equipment maintained in the Forensic Services Section. This log will include the manufacturer, model number, serial number, agency applied inventory number (if applicable), and purchase date.

7.2 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES:

7.2.1 Upon receipt of all materials and supplies, the packing slip will be

checked for agreement with the items received.

7.2.1.1 The person verifying the contents of the shipment against the packing slip will write the date received and their initials on the packing slip.

7.2.1.2 The packing slip will then be forwarded to the Forensic Services Office Assistant or retained by the individual who placed the order for their procurement card records.

7.2.1.3 All supplies that are received by the Digital Enhancement

unit are to be stored in a safe manner according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

7.3 OPERATING MANUALS:

Warranty information and operating manuals will be filed in the Digital


Enhancement unit and will be readily available to all operators of the equipment.

7.4 SERVICE AND REPAIR RECORDS:

Anytime an item of equipment requires service, maintenance, or repair documentation will be made in the Digital Enhancement Maintenance Logbook and the paperwork will be filed in the Maintenance file

7.4.1 Maintenance Schedules:

Routine maintenance will be provided on a schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

7.4 DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT COMPONENTS:

See Appendix I

8. SAFETY

8.1 The Forensic Services staff will follow all safety procedures established by the Baltimore County Government, the Baltimore County Police Department, and the Forensic Services Section, as well as State and Federal regulations.

8.2 PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT: 8.2.1 When handling evidence, which poses a potential biohazard, or

evidence, which has been treated with fingerprint powders and/or chemicals, personnel using the digital enhancement equipment will wear the appropriate gloves provided by the unit.

8.2.2 When utilizing alternate light sources to fluoresce various types of

evidence, personnel will wear the appropriate UV barrier goggles provided to the unit.

8.2.3 A First Aid Kit is within easy access to all personnel.

8.3 No food or drinks should be consumed when evidence is in the area. A sign shall be posted stating this restriction. Digital enhancement operators shall remind anyone entering the Digital Enhancement area of this restriction, when


necessary. 9. SECURITY 9.1 Access to the Public Safety Building is controlled by Security Guards

stationed at the front entrance, where entry to the building may be obtained by the use of magnetic security cards, or by the Security Guards. All other entrances to the building require magnetic security cards. The Security staff checks these other entrances with closed-circuit cameras and monitors.

9.2 The Digital Enhancement unit is located on the eleventh floor of the Public

Safety Building. Access to this floor is limited to employees with magnetic security cards, which permit entry from the elevator area to the various offices on the floor.

9.3 The doors to the Forensic Services Section are always locked when unit

personnel are not present. Keys to Forensic Services Section are limited to:

A. Authorized Forensic Services personnel. The QA/QC Manager maintains a list of keys and who has them.

B. Public Safety Building security personnel. 9.4 All digitally trained personnel will retain a key to the Digital Enhancement

area.

9.4.1 A spare key will be kept in the lock box in the Forensic Services Section Evidence Room.

9.5 DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT SECURITY:

9.5.1 The primary, image management software program for the digital enhancement workstation computers is MoreHits™

9.5.2 Access into the software requires the operator to log on his or her

name and type in an individually assigned password, which authorizes the utilization of the digital enhancement equipment.

9.5.3 Computer system management is restricted to the System

Administrator and Digital Enhancement Supervisor. Only they can access all functions of the computer software and can review the audit log of personnel who have accessed the MoreHits™ software.

9.5.4 Only digitally trained personnel will have access to the enhancement

software capabilities of the system.


9.5.4.1 All images requiring processing and enhancement must be acquired using the MoreHits™ software package, which automatically encrypts the image with an individual code number.

9.5.4.2 After processing and enhancement has been completed, a

new encryption code will be assigned to that image. 9.5.4.3 All images acquired into More Hits™ will be permanently

recorded onto a CD, which will be numbered by volume. Two copies will be created and kept in different locations. One will be stored near the server/workstation unit and the other will be stored off-site

9.5.5 The Network Hub, which is utilized to network MoreHits™ server,

MoreHits™ workstation, and AFIS computer, will have connections that are secure.

9.5.5.1 A MoreHits™ technical representative will be called for

service. 9.5.6 The Tripp-Lite UPS provides emergency back up power to computers

in the event of power failure within the building UPS.

9.5.6.1 The TRIPP-Lite UPS will only be used to power the CPU and monitor.

9.5.6.2 Digital Enhancement System Administrator will periodically

verify the green indicator light on front of the unit is glowing steadily.

10. REPORTS 10.1 DIGITAL CAMERA IMAGE CAPTURE:

10.1.1 When a digital image is captured with a digital camera, the image is imprinted with the following information:

A. Date B. Time C. Camera settings

10.2 IMAGE ACQUISITION INTO MOREHITS™: 10.2.1 The following information will be recorded when the captured image is


acquired into the MoreHits™ software:

A. CC # B. Date and time of acquisition C. Name and ID # of operator D. Location / Precinct # E. Type of Incident F. Type of evidence photographed G. Method of image acquisition H. Surface type of evidence, if applicable I. Type of processing affecting the evidence J. Item of evidence number associated with the evidence K. Additional information can be noted or the evidence can be further

described as required.

10.2.2 All the above data becomes a permanent part of the image in question and can be printed out with the image.

10.3 REPORTS OF ENHANCEMENTS BASED ON FORM #88, “REQUEST FOR LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS”: 10.3.1 When an enhancement or processing of an original image is

completed, a report of the results of the processing will be placed on the back of the Form # 88. Two copies will be made of the completed Form#88.

10.3.1.1 The original will be forwarded to Central Records to be filed

with the original report. See 10.3.1.4 for homicides, drug and Internal Affairs cases.

10.3.1.2 A copy will be forwarded to the investigator who requested

the processing or enhancement. See 10.3.1.4 for homicides and Internal Affairs cases.

10.3.1.3 A copy will be filed in Forensic Services case file.

10.3.1.4 Confidential cases (homicides/Internal Affairs/Drug cases)

will not be sent to Central Records. The original will be submitted to the requesting officer and a copy will be kept in the Forensic Services Section case file.

10.4 MONTHLY UNIT STATISTICS REPORT: 10.4.1 A monthly report of the Digital Enhancement unit statistics shall be

forwarded to the Quality Assurance Manager by the 10th of each


month. 10.4.2 For each person designated to do digital image enhancements, the

monthly report shall document:

A. # of cases worked B. # of digital images enhanced/examined.

10.4.3 In addition, the monthly report will indicate:

A. # of Form 88s received B. # of in-house case entries C. Total # of digital log entries D. # of court exhibits prepared E. # of crime scene responses F. Current backlog (end of month) G. Oldest case (date) H. # of cold cases worked I. Hours of overtime for cold cases J. Digital projects (non-criminal) K. Tours/presentations/demos L. Hours of court attended (digital) M. Hours of training attended (digital) N. Other jurisdiction’s cases worked

11. COURT 11.1 180-day notices shall be responded to promptly. 11.2 When summonses are received, the Forensic Services Section Summons

Logbook will be signed and dated. 11.3 For cases handled by the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office,

Forensic Services personnel are to respond to court only on the personal notification from the assigned attorney, or their designee. This is an operational agreement with their office.

11.4 When the summons is issued at the request of an attorney from another

jurisdiction, the recipient of the summons will be personally contact the attorney and requested they comply with the procedure in 10.3.

11.5 Forensic Services staff should always insist on a pre-trial conference to brief

the prosecuting State’s Attorney on matters relating to the evidence and digital enhancement technology.


11.6 A copy of the original image, authenticated by an encryption code, will be

presented as evidence in court. When an enhanced image is to be offered in court as evidence it will be presented with its original image and the fully documented enhancement history.

11.7 The Examination Unit Supervisor will periodically monitor personnel on court

testimony with regard to digital enhancement and report on the quality of their testimony to the Quality Assurance Manager.

11.8 After testifying an “Evaluation of Testimony” form will always be presented to

the prosecuting State’s Attorney, the Judge and the defense attorney. The completed form will be forwarded to the Forensic Services Director. The Forensic Services Director will forward the original completed form to the Quality Assurance Manager for filing and copies to the Digital Enhancement Supervisor and the individual who testified.

12. TRAINING 12.1 All Forensic Services Technicians and Supervisors in the Crime Scene Unit

and the Forensic Analyst should be trained to do digital image processing and enhancements as required.

12.1.1 The Forensic Analyst and Forensic Services Supervisors will be trained

on all aspects of the system, including digital image processing and enhancements.

12.1.2 All Forensic Services Technicians will be trained to capture and acquire images with the stand-mounted, high-resolution digital camera located in the Digital Enhancement area. They may also be trained on all other aspects of the system, including digital image processing and enhancements.

12.1.3 A reasonable attempt will be made to provide training to all Crime

Scene personnel considering time constraints and personnel shortages. The Digital Enhancement Supervisor will designate who will/will not be trained.

12.2 The training of those designated to perform digital image enhancements shall

include classes in:

A. Introduction to Computers B. Introduction to Windows 2000 or equivalent C. Adobe PhotoShop (in-house training 40hours minimum) D. Basic fingerprint information E. Basic photography techniques


F. Testimony and/or moot court G. In-house training on input and output peripherals H. Flatbed scanners I. Negative scanners J. CD Creation K. Printers

12.3 All training will be documented. 12.4 No personnel without the appropriate training will be authorized to operate

any of the digital enhancement equipment. 13. REFERENCES 13.1 The Image Processing Handbook, 2nd Edition, John C. Russ, CRC Press,

Boca Raton, FL, 1995. 13.2 Digital Image Processing, Gregory A. Baxes, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New

York, 1994. 13.3 Scientific Working Group for Imaging Technology Guidelines.

13.4 Scientific Working Group for Digital Evidence Guidelines.

13.5 American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) Manual.

13.6 Standard for Law Enforcement Agencies, Commission on Accreditation for

Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) Manual. 13.7 Baltimore County Police Department Field Manual. 13.8 Baltimore County Police Department Administrative Manual.

13.9 Baltimore County Police Department Evidence Packaging Procedures.

13.10 Forensic Services Administrative Manual.

13.11 Forensic Services Quality Assurance Manual.

13.12 Forensic Services Safety Manual.


13.13 ASTM International Standards, Volume 14.02 - Forensic Sciences 13.14 More Hits™ System Manual 13.15 Adobe PhotoShop 6.0 Manual 13.16 Adobe Premier Manual

13.17 Cognitech Video Investigator Manual

APPENDIX I

DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM COMPONENTS In-house Image Capture:

A. Kodak DCS-330 Digital Camera (3.3 Megapixels) - Nikon 20mm lens - Nikon 60mm macro lens - Fire wire attachment - PCMCIA card B. Nikon Coolscan II 35mm Film Slide Scanner A. UMAX Flatbed Scanner B. UMAX Powerlook 1100 Flatbed Scanner with top light for negative/slide

scanning C. GYYR Super High-density Time Lapse SVHS Video Deck D. Sony High-8 Professional Deck E. Sony Hi-Fi Stereo VCR Deck F. U.S. Robotics External 33.6 bys Data/Fax/Voice Modem G. Copy Stand H. IR Filter

Image Management and Processing:

A. Network System containing two workstations a. Server Station

- Pentium III 800MHz, 256 MB RAM, 9GB HD. - 40x CD-ROM - 10x DVD, CD-R Read (4x)/Write(2x)


- 21” ViewSonic SVGA Monitor - External 56k Modem - PCMCIA Card Reader - UPS Surge Protector - 250 MB Zip Drive

b. Secondary Station - 233MHz, 128 MB RAM, 4 GB HD - CD-R Read (4x)/Write(2x) - 21” ViewSonic SVGA Monitor - PCMCIA Card Reader - UPS Surge Protector

B. MoreHits™ Software C. Adobe PhotoShop Software

Output System:

A. Lexmark Optra 1650 B&W Laser Printer. Use standard paper B. Kodak Color Dye-Sublimation Printer. Use special dye-sublimation paper and

ribbon. B. Xerox Phaser 790 (Tektronix) Color Laser Printer. Use only high quality, non-

recycled paper. No labels or transparencies C. Color Ink Jet HP 2000c. Use standard paper. D. (2) CD-R Read (4x)/Write(2x) (See Network Systems)

Mobile System:

A. (2) Kodak DCS-410 Digital Cameras (1.5 Megapixels) B. Kodak DCS 660 Digital Cameras (6 Megapixels)

- Pelican Carrying Case - Nikon 20mm Lens - Nikon 60mm Macro Lens - Nikon SB-28 flash & PC Cord - PCMCIA Card

C. Bogen Tripod with slide arm D. NEC Versa 6050 Notebook PC

- 150 MHz MMX, 64 MB RAM, 21 GB HD - 10x CD-R - Data/Fax/Voice modem

E. Dell Inspiron/5000e Laptop Computer - Pentium III 500MHz, 256 MB RAM 10GB HD - DVD/CD-ROM - IEEE1394 Port - Internal 56K Modem

F. DCR-TRV Digital 900 Video Camera - Pelican Carrying Case - CZ-200A Sunpak Camera Light


G. In Focus LP 435Z LCD presentation Video Projector. - Carrying case.

H. Crime Scene Light Kit with carrying case and extension cords. Miscellaneous:

A. Additional peripherals B. Network Hub, Kingston Technology (EtheRx Pro-Series)

C. Tripp-Lite UPS D. Furniture for Workstation Units 1. INTRODUCTION 4 1.1 MISSION STATEMENT: 4 1.2 GOAL: 4 1.3 OBJECTIVES: 4 1.4 COMMUNICATION: 6 1.5 STAFFING: 6 1.6 RESPONSE TO CRIME SCENES: 7 1.7 QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL: 7 2. EVIDENCE HANDLING 8 2.1 All evidence handling procedures must comply with the rules and policies of the Baltimore County Police Department and the Forensic Services Section. 8 2.2 In order to render digital enhancement services on a criminal case, the Forensic Services Section must receive a properly filled out Form # 88, “Request for Laboratory Examination”. A Forensic Services Technician may perform digital enhancement services without a Form # 88 on items he/she has collected. The Technician must document all digital work on the Form # 11, "Supplement". 8 3. GENERAL UNIT GUIDELINES 11 3.2 PRINTING DIGITAL IMAGES: 11 3.3 REQUESTS FOR LABORATORY EXAMINATION, FORM #88: 12 3.4 NORMAL DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING TIMES: 13 4. INTEGRITY 13 5. DIGITAL IMAGE ACQUISITION 14 5.7 REVIEW OF DIGITAL IMAGES: 18 6. EQUIPMENT 20 6.1 INVENTORY: 20 6.3 OPERATING MANUALS: 20 6.4 SERVICE AND REPAIR RECORDS: 21 7. SAFETY 21 7.2 PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT: 21 8. SECURITY 22 9. REPORTS 23


9.1 DIGITAL CAMERA IMAGE CAPTURE: 23 9.3 REPORTS OF ENHANCEMENTS BASED ON FORM #88, “REQUEST FOR 24 LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS”: 24 9.4 MONTHLY UNIT STATISTICS REPORT: 24 10. COURT 25 11. TRAINING 26 12. REFERENCES 27 APPENDIX I 28 DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM COMPONENTS 28

Documents

SOP - Baltimore County Maryland Digital Enhancement · To provide a full range of digital image enhancement services to the Baltimore County Police Department, ... into the B.E.A.S.T