Forensic Video Analysis and Enhancement

Powered by the Cognitech Tri-Suite forensic video system, Covert Sciences can acquire, process, and present video evidence in a scientifically valid manner and explain complex issues to triers of fact in legal settings. All forensic video services are compliant with guidelines established by the Scientific Working Group on Imaging Technologies. The example shown here represents a common request: to obtain a legible vehicle license plate from challenging surveillance video throughout various stages in the process, from deinterlacing and selection of the best existing frames, to velocity estimation and stabilization reconstruction, and finally frame averaging of the stabilized video to obtain a clear still image. Of course, this video has been compressed for display on the Internet, and does not represent the original quality of the processed video.

Forensic video analysis services include:

• Demultiplexing to separate and process multiple camera views originally recorded onto a single analog VHS videotape
• Enlarging regions of interest within a video recording, such as to display a single camera channel from a "Quad" processed video with four camera channel quadrants
• Acquisition of video from Digital Video Recorders, including from systems using proprietary video CODECs (compressor/decompressors) and/or proprietary viewing software, and conversion to a standardized format for processing without compromising image integrity
• Clarification of poor quality video produced by CCTV systems using scientifically validated algorithms to reduce the effects of signal noise, compression artifacts, blur from various sources, and inadequate lighting conditions
• Playback speed correction
• Recovery of video and photographic image files from optical discs that were not properly finalized
• Analysis of analog and digital video recordings to detect and document undisclosed edits, redactions, and copies purported to be originals
• Stereo photogrammetry to obtain linear, area, and trajectory measurements from evidence recordings even if the crime scene or video recording system has changed since the recording was made, or no longer exists
• Extraction, processing, aspect ratio correction, and enlargement of still images from video

Forensic Video Analysis Consulting and Training

If your law enforcement agency, insurance Special Investigations Unit, or corporate loss prevention department has a frequent, high volume need for processing video and audio evidence, we can assist with implementation of your own forensic multimedia laboratory, including personnel selection criteria and testing, installation and technical support of software and equipment, development of Standard Operating Procedures, and training your new analysts to properly secure, process, analyze, and present recorded evidence.

CCTV System Consulting

At Covert Sciences, we see the results of poor quality surveillance video systems all too often; our experience analyzing surveillance video provides insight into deficiencies caused by low quality cameras and recording systems, common mistakes made by system integrators, and shortcuts taken by installers. CCTV systems are complex and full of arcane specifications that in many cases, the salesperson doesn't even understand. The good news is that we can assist you by providing the information you need to make corrections to your existing system to the extent possible, or make the most informed decisions about purchasing a new or retrofit system. Because we don't sell CCTV products or accept commissions from companies that do, you know our advice is objective. CCTV system consulting services include:

• Analysis of CCTV system quotations, including specifications and pricing
• Site survey to assess adequacy of proposed systems and components
• Supervision of the installation process and quality control testing of installed components

Evidence Collection and Submission to Affiliated Forensic Laboratories

Covert Sciences can collect and submit other forms of evidence to recognized experts in other forensic disciplines who operate their own facilities/laboratories. Examples include, but are not limited to computer forensic analysis, mobile/cellular forensics, and forensic DNA testing.

Evidence Photography

Documenting physical evidence with photographs for introduction as evidence at trial requires the proper equipment, skills, and mindset. Covert Sciences can obtain high quality images of trace evidence, physical injuries, motor vehicle and building property damage, accident or injury site conditions, shipping containers, and business inventory using high-resolution digital photographs. All images meet evidentiary standards and where appropriate, include a linear reference scale and/or color reference to demonstrate image accuracy in a court of law. Allowing Covert Sciences to provide evidence photography services is a cost effective alternative to assigning the task to paralegals or other support personnel, especially when factoring in the cost of lost productivity if they are required to testify to authenticate those images. 

Call Toll-free: 877-828-1191