NCJ Number
205585
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 28 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2004 Pages: 60-61
Date Published
May 2004
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article describes a state-of-the-art software for creating composite pictures of suspects, called FACES 4.0 by IQ Biometrix.
Abstract
By combining a plethora of facial characteristics, 4,400 in all, the FACES 4.0 software is able to produce photo-quality composites. Developed in 1998, FACES is used around the world to create pictures of criminal suspects; the television show “America’s Most Wanted” utilizes FACES regularly, leading to the capture of suspects highlighted on their show. Among the applications and enhancements of FACES 4.0 are the ability to chose among three hair colors; side-to-side hair flip; scars, moles, tattoos, and other markings; age progression; and detachable hats and headwear. The software is described as user friendly and very intuitive, allowing police officers to create high-quality composites with limited training. FACES provides users with a high degree of control that allows for subtle changes, such as changes between a five o-clock shadow and a clean-shaven face, which are only a mouse click away. FACES is described as so life-like that Biometrix added a disclaimer cautioning, “Not a Real Photograph” to avoid confusion among the public. Another positive feature of FACES is that when used with new wireless-capable notebook computers, the quick composites can lead to faster suspect apprehension. A demonstration version of FACES is available for download at the IQ Biometrix Web site: www.iqbiometrix.com. Law enforcement agencies may also request the use of FACES on a trial basis.