The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) are delivering a four-session Virtual Workshop Series: 3D Firearm Imaging from August 21 to September 11, 2024. Throughout this workshop series, attendees will hear from a range of presenters and subject matter experts, including Alan Zheng (National Institute of Standards and Technology), Rachael Gominsky (Federal Bureau of Investigation), Todd Weller (Weller Forensics), Erich Smith (Federal Bureau of Investigation), Carey M Alvarez Bacha (Unified Forensic Laboratory), and Raymond Valerio (Queens County District Attorney’s Office). There are a limited number of virtual seats available for participation in this workshop series cohort, and the application closes on July 5, 2024. This series is intended for firearm examiners or soon-to-be firearm examiners working in laboratories that have recently adopted 3D Firearm Imaging or are considering its adoption soon.
3D Firearm Imaging is a powerful new analytical technique that is becoming more commonplace with forensic science service providers (FSSPs) due to its ability to enhance the accuracy and reliability of ballistic evidence analysis. Despite these advantages, 3D Firearm Imaging remains underutilized because of the high costs associated with the technology, the need for specialized training, and the inertia of transitioning from traditional methods. This comprehensive workshop series aims to provide forensic practitioners with a greater understanding of the intricacies of 3D Firearm Imaging. Spanning several sessions, participants will delve into a range of critical topics, each carefully designed to enhance their expertise and proficiency in this specialized field.
In the first session, participants will be introduced to the fundamentals of firearm imaging, becoming familiar with cutting-edge instrumentation essential for the task. Attendees will understand the features and capabilities of scanning technologies and how they capture and process images of firearms and ballistic evidence with both precision and accuracy. They will gain insight into the principles of optics, digital imaging, and image processing, understanding how these concepts are applied in forensic science practices. Moreover, participants will explore the application of control charts as a powerful tool for monitoring and maintaining the quality of imaging processes over time. This ensures consistency and reliability in forensic casework, thereby enhancing the credibility and integrity of investigative outcomes.
Building upon this foundation, the workshop series will further explore the establishment and adherence to industry best practices and standards. Through practical examples, participants will understand the importance of consistency, accuracy, and attention to detail in firearm imaging. This session will provide an overview of validation with a focus on validating systems designed to measure and compare microscopic toolmarks on fired ammunition. Participants will also be introduced to the latest standards from the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) and relevant documents from the Technical Working Group for 3D Toolmark Technologies (TWG3D2T).
Efficiency is paramount in forensic casework, and in session 3 participants will discover strategies to streamline workflows without compromising quality. Attendees will learn about Laboratory integrating Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enhance data management and workflow efficiency. This includes understanding the benefits and challenges of different workflow configurations, gaining insights into selecting the best approach for their specific laboratory needs.
Finally, the workshop series will conclude by preparing participants to effectively communicate their findings in a courtroom setting. From expert testimony techniques to navigating legal considerations and challenges during cross-examination, attendees will emerge equipped with the skills and confidence needed to convey their expertise with clarity and credibility.
Session 1: Introduction to 3D Firearm Microscopy
August 21, 2024 2:00 – 3:30PM ET
Instrumentation, and Measurement Practices Xiaoyu Alan Zheng, National Institute of Standards and Technology Rachael Gominsky, Federal Bureau of Investigation Session Overview: 3D Firearms imaging systems are becoming more commonplace in forensic laboratories. While they provide improved imaging and analysis, there are new considerations examiners need to be aware of when using these systems. In this session, attendees will understand the features and capabilities of scanning technologies and how they capture and process images of firearms and ballistic evidence with both precision and accuracy. This session will cover instrument methodologies, limitations of 3D data, and best practices for implementation. Participants will explore the application of control charts as a powerful tool for monitoring and maintaining the quality of imaging processes over t ime. The topics addressed will help ensure that the data generated are accurate and suitable for toolmark analysis.
Session 2: Validation Standards and Technical Working Group for 3D Toolmark Technologies (TWG3D2T)
August 28, 2024 2:00 – 3:30PM ET
Todd Weller, Weller Forensics Rachael Gominsky, Federal Bureau of Investigation Session Overview: This presentation will provide an overview of validation, focusing on systems designed to measure and compare microscopic toolmarks on fired ammunition (e.g., bullets and cartridge cases). Rather than offering a protocol or step-by-step guide, the talk will instead address practical considerations and metrics to consider for validation. The goal is to make the concept of validation more approachable and less intimidating for participants. Attendees will also be introduced to the latest standards from the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) and relevant documents from the Technical Working Group for 3D Toolmark Technologies (TWG3D2T).
Session 3: Casework Efficiency
September 4, 2024 2:00 – 3:30PM ET
LIMS Integration, and Workflow Configurations Carey M Alvarez Bacha, Unified Forensic Laboratory Erich D. Smith, Federal Bureau of Investigation Session Overview: The Cadre Forensics TopMatch-3D High-Capacity Scanner captures high resolution three-dimensional scans of fired cartridge cases and test fired cartridge cases. This presentation will cover the Unified Forensic Laboratory’s validation of the Cadre Forensics TopMatch-3D High-Capacity Scanner and NIBIN triaging algorithm. This discussion will focus on their use in evaluating and classifying f ired cartridge cases and test fired cartridge cases for entry into National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). Additionally, the presentation will explore the practical integration of the Cadre Forensic TopMatch-3D High-Capacity Scanner and NIBIN triaging algorithm for use in NIBIN casework, highlighting best practices, challenges, and solutions.
Session 4 Overview: TBD
September 11, 2024 2:00 – 3:30PM ET