NCJ Number
123870
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 38 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1990) Pages: 68-70
Date Published
1990
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Polaroid instant cameras are popular with departments that recognize the need to obtain and send or receive visual documentation quickly and easily.
Abstract
Both the burglary and homicide units of the Kansas City Police Department rely on instant cameras when compiling case files that require photographs of pilfered property, crime scenes, or stolen autos. The units also use instant photos for suspect identification. The small police department of Dover, Mass., has used instant cameras to improve officer report quality, as the officers write more detailed reports backed up with one or more photographs. Police courtroom reports are accompanied by evidentiary photos in such cases as vandalism and illegal dumping. The Dover police use instant photography in domestic violence cases to document victims' injuries. The Fort Benton Police Department (Montana) uses instant photography to record a variety of incidents, including car accidents, burglary scenes, and the rare homicide. Instant color film is used to document paint transfer from one vehicle to another in auto accidents, help identify missing or stolen vehicles, and catalogue evidence.