Failure of anthropometry as a facial identification technique using high-quality photographs

Kleinberg, K.F., Vanezis, P. and Burton, A.M. (2007) Failure of anthropometry as a facial identification technique using high-quality photographs. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 52(4), pp. 779-783. (doi: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2007.00458.x)

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Abstract

Anthropometry can be used in certain circumstances to facilitate comparison of a photograph of a suspect with that of the potential offender from surveillance footage. Experimental research was conducted to determine whether anthropometry has a place in forensic practice in confirming the identity of a suspect from a surveillance video. We examined an existing database of photographic lineups, where one video image was compared against 10 photographs, which has previously been used in psychological research. Target (1) and test (10) photos were of high quality, although taken with a different camera. The anthropometric landmarks of right and left ectocanthions, nasion, and stomion were chosen, and proportions and angle values between these landmarks were measured to compare target with test photos. Results indicate that these measurements failed to accurately identify targets. There was also no indication that any of the landmarks made a better comparison than another. It was concluded that, for these landmarks, this method does not generate the consistent results necessary for use as evidence in a court of law.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Burton, Prof Anthony and Kleinberg, Dr Krista
Authors: Kleinberg, K.F., Vanezis, P., and Burton, A.M.
Subjects:R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA1001 Forensic Medicine. Medical jurisprudence. Legal medicine
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
College of Science and Engineering > School of Psychology
Journal Name:Journal of Forensic Sciences
ISSN:0022-1198
ISSN (Online):1556-4029
Published Online:25 May 2007

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