NCJ Number
186109
Journal
International Journal of Forensic Document Examiners Volume: 5 Dated: December/January 1999 Pages: 430-433
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the document-examination techniques used in a Canadian case that involved a terrorist conspiracy.
Abstract
Eight months of work went into trying to identify the "DIRECT ACTION" group that claimed responsibility for acts of terrorism in Canada. It was not through document examination that the first clues to their identity was obtained, but rather through persistent police surveillance. This effort resulted in the removal from garbage containers of torn pieces of paper with handwriting and hand-drawn surveillance maps of potential targets. It was evidence obtained by the examination of these and other documents that was the critical and determining factor in making the connection that led to numerous charges being brought against the accused. From the perspective of the document examiner, the case had complex and unique problems. The authors discuss these under the following topics: the importance of liaison with investigators and crown counsel; examinations that involved photocopy comparison, paper examinations, carbon copies, typewriting, and handwriting; research that resulted in specific examinations; court testimony; and the importance of document evidence. 3 figures and 3 references