UK Independent Facial Mapping Experts

Facial mapping is a process involving the analysis and comparison of two or more moving or still facial images, often from CCTV footage but also digital or analogue photographs, and determining through the identified characteristics, similarities and resemblances whether they are of the same person. The facial mapping process uses aligned scaled images to scientifically demonstrate comparable facial features recognised within a legal context. In order for this process to be beneficial to the justice system it needs to be carried out by court recognised experts who are capable of proving or disproving identities through facial mapping and facial imaging.

Facial mapping serves to demonstrate significant areas and points of similarity between two or more images, identifies the absence or presence of specific facial features which all lead to an accurate comparison between the images used. Facial mapping serves not only to prove identity, but also non-identity.

A facial mapping expert needs to be experienced and qualified encompassing a thorough knowledge of human facial anatomy, physiology and physical anthropometry as well as detailed knowledge of photo image analysis techniques.

As stated in the Association of Chief Police Officers of England, Wales and Northern Ireland Facial Imaging Document:

“Facial mapping expertise is achieved through experience and can be measured by the acceptance of reports presented in the court”

Ken Linge is the DABS Forensic Ltd Senior facial mapping expert, and with his unique Master of Science degree in facial mapping qualification and with over 450 cases presented in Court over fourteen years he is recognised as one of the leading authorities in the field of facial mapping, facial imaging and video imaging.

The nature of the facial mapping/ facial imaging process heavily relies on the quality of images and technology that provides the images. These images provided for facial mapping are often supplied (in the UK) by Facial Identification Officers, Police Artists, forensic artists or are independently reviewed on behalf of the defense.