NCJ Number
219546
Journal
Crime & Justice International Volume: 23 Issue: 97 Dated: March/April 2007 Pages: 27-29
Date Published
March 2007
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes the use of ballistic imaging technology to reduce firearm-related crime.
Abstract
Through its National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) deploys the Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS) equipment to Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies around the country. The IBIS can be used to acquire digital images of the markings made by a firearm on bullets and cartridge casings. The images then undergo automated initial comparisons of all the ballistic firearm information in the NIBIN. The NIBIN system works by reducing the amount of non-matching evidence that firearm examiners must inspect to find a confirmable match thus, links between crimes are discovered more quickly and information is more easily shared across jurisdictions, which enables Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies to work together to thwart firearm crime. IBIS equipment is currently found at 228 sites around the country and there are 182 agencies participating in the program. Additionally, every major metropolitan area has access to ballistic imaging technology. ATF purchases IBIS equipment for deployment and provides regular upgrades and services and administers the network over which it communicates. Several case studies are presented to show the uses of IBIS and the NIBIN program.