Some Interesting Facts about forensic art

Not all Composite Artists Are Trained
The level of proficiency varies from artist to artist. A Composite Artist (CA) should have significant art training.

Sworn or Non-Sworn—Does it Make a Difference?
A sworn police officer gains valuable experience dealing with suspects, victims, and witnesses. Making the transition from the world of law and order to the intuitive art world is the biggest hurdle for the sworn sketch artist. The non-sworn sketch artist can bring a fresh perspective to the interview process. Learning the protocol, the laws and the policies of the law enforcement agency is the biggest hurdle for the non-sworn sketch artist.

Does Every Police Department Have a Composite Artist On Staff?
No. Very few agencies employ a full-time sketch artist.You'll find that many agencies utilize their part-time Sketch Artists in a collateral capacity or sometimes hire a freelance artist from the area.

True or False: Computer Software Programs Will Eliminate the Need For a Highly Trained Composite Artist.
FALSE. Although some software programs offer a photo-like composite sketch, the end product usually lacks a reliability that a drawn composite sketch can offer.These programs are limited in their ability to alter features. These are essential techniques employed by the best sketch artists in the country. No software program we have seen can offer this high level of sketch quality.

What Does the FBI Know About Composite Art?
The FBI was the first agency to develop a standard for applying a technique of Composite Sketching that could be used by agencies large and small across the country. This technique, which we call the Standard Methodology, allowed a variety of artists and non-artists to develop composite sketches. Composite sketch artists across the country were certified using this method.

Can a Well-Trained Composite Artist Help Solve a Missing Person Case?
Yes. The Composite Artist (CA) can assist the investigator by developing age progression sketches of the missing person. The CA can also modify existing photographs to eliminate or add hair, scars or marks, accessories, etc.

How Do You Help the Witness To Recall a Face or Event?
Great importance is placed on the environment and the development of the intuitive nature of the interview. Physical appearance, developing a rapport, and a relaxing interview all play a part in the successful flow of information. The combination of the free flowing interview process and the artistic skills of the Composite Artist brings a reliable sketch to the Investigative process.

Which is Better: Interviewing the Same Day as the Incident or much later?
We believe there are three important factors:

1. The witness’s physical and emotional condition

2. The state of preparedness of the Sketch Artist

3. Concern for public safety

 

updated 12-7-04

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