Much of the legal process requires reconstructing a crime scene for investigators and jury members; a trick that is much easier said than done. Until recently, that is. Law enforcement organizations are seeing the value of having animation class graduates on their teams to make the process of reconstruction easier and more accurate. For a select few, what started as a computer animation career has taken on an exciting new twist.
Homicide Case-in-point
In 1992, the California Superior Court made history by being the first trial to feature a computer animation reconstruction of the crime scene. Prosecutors in the People vs. Mitchell in Marin County used ballistics evidence and animation software to show how shots fired from the gun of Jim Mitchell killed his brother. The animation clip was played for the jury during testimony and closing statements.
Despite the fact that the Mitchell camp appealed due to the new technology, he was eventually convicted and spent three years in prison. Computer animation then took a permanent place in trail processes.
What is a Reconstructionist?
Armed with a digital camera, an Electronic Distance Measuring Instrument, and Auto CAD software, reconstructionists create potential scenarios of auto accidents for investigative purposes. One part technician and one part prognosticator, these professionals typically have animation classes in their creative backgrounds.
As technologies continue to diversify, computer animation should play a larger role in homeland security, local and national law enforcement, and legal processes.
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