The Principles of Forensic Video/Image Compare and Contrast
Course Overview:
This ONLINE class focuses on the science of comparing images and/or video of unknown objects with images of known items. The process of learning about and following a robust scientific method for comparing items by examining different characteristics is examined in detail. Using a variety of processes, analysts/examiners will follow a scientific workflow involving the hands-on analysis of image/video evidence to provide scientific analytical report writing and courtroom presentation.
Objectives:
- Understand and articulate consistencies and inconsistencies between items that may appear similar.
- Identify characteristics to be used in the comparison of unknown or questioned items and known items.
- Prepare video evidence for court.
- Understand the boundaries for the forensic video expert in court.
- Develop competency with the production of comparison charts and court exhibits.
- Develop advanced strategies for the examination of video evidence regarding the science of comparison.
- Produce effective courtroom presentations
Instructors:
Tracy Peloquin: is a LEVA Certified Forensic Video Analyst. She retired from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Canada in 2021 after 32 years. Tracy has been working in the field of forensic video analysis since 1992 when the OPP received their first FVA system. She has also been extensively trained in the science of comparison (video/image comparison, fingerprint, footwear, physical match) and holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminalistics. After her retirement, Tracy founded Peloquin Forensics, a forensic consulting company providing forensic video/image analysis and testimony in criminal and civil investigations across the globe. Tracy has been the LEVA Level 3 lead instructor since 2018 and is also a co-instructor in LEVA Level 4.
Jonathan Hak KC PhD: is a barrister and solicitor who served as a Crown Prosecutor in Canada for over thirty years. He has extensive experience prosecuting serious and violent crime and utilizing image-based evidence in complex cases. He is an international imagery law researcher and lecturer who teaches extensively in the UK, US, Canada, Singapore, and Europe on the legal and practical considerations involved in the effective use of image-based evidence in criminal prosecutions. Jonathan holds a Diploma in Criminal Justice (Mount Royal University, Canada), a BSc (with distinction) (California State University, US), an LLB (University of British Columbia, Canada), an LLM (University of Cambridge), and a PhD in Law (Leiden University, Netherlands). The focus of his recent PhD work is on the use of non-textual evidence in international criminal prosecutions. He is the author of Image-Based Evidence in International Criminal Prosecutions: Charting a Path Forward (Oxford University Press, 2024). Jonathan was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2006. He lectures full-time at the University of Leicester Law School (UK) and is also an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Lethbridge (Canada).
Software and Equipment:
Credits and Certificate:
Graduates of the course receive a LEVA certificate indicating successful completion of the 40-hour curriculum. That certificate should NOT be interpreted as a certification of any type. Registering for any LEVA class indicates they fully understand they are not receiving certification from any one LEVA course and must refer to this training as LEVA’s on their resume, CV, or any discoverable document. This class is not conducted to officially endorse any product or service.
Successful completion of this basic level course satisfies a requirement toward LEVA’s Forensic Video Analyst certification.
Additional Information:
For additional information regarding this course, contact Troy Lawrence, LEVA Deputy Executive Director, troy.lawrence@leva.org.