Drone to support the police in forensic investigations

The demands on the forensic documentation of crime scenes are constantly increasing, according to a communication from the Zug Police. One way in which the Forensic Service meets these demands is with the use of a flying camera, and a new police drone will be deployed from June. This makes it possible to obtain photographic evidence from the air, while also supporting forensic photogrammetry. "A drone represents a clear time saving, especially in comparison to standard photogrammetry," the report continues.
Photogrammetry (also known as image measurement) is a group of measurement methods and evaluation procedures for remote sensing, in order to determine the spatial position or three-dimensional shape of an object from photographs and accurate measurement images.

The police drone used by the Zug Police. (Photo: PD)

The police drone is equipped with a high-resolution camera that can take usable pictures even in dim light. In combination with the corresponding software, it is possible to create plans, or even a 3D model of the crime scene. This technology significantly improves the visual documentation of crime scenes, serious traffic accidents, fires or major damage events.

The use of the drone is limited to the Forensics Service and its specific field of securing evidence. The staff of the Forensic Service have completed the appropriate internal and external training in dealing with the drone and continue to educate themselves, as stated in the message from the police. (Rh / pd)