Forensic Statistics (Karen Kafadar, organizer)

Benjamin Bachrach (Intelligent Automation, Inc.)
Statistical Techniques Applied to the Surface Topography Analysis of Firearms-related Forensic Evidence

Friday 10:30-11:00, Fountain I

Abstract:

The ability to validate that an evidence bullet (or cartridge case) was fired by a suspect weapon is of significant value for law enforcement agencies and the court. Such association hinges on the premise that the microscopic imperfections found on the weapon's working surfaces are sufficiently unique to enable a one-to-one association between the weapon and the evidence. This talk will focus on the combined use of surface topography and statistical techniques to assess the uniqueness of firearms-related evidence.


James J. Filliben (NIST)
Statistical Methods for Assessing the Feasibility of a National Ballistics Imaging Database

Friday 11:00-11:30, Fountain I

Abstract:

This talk focuses on a National Academy of Sciences-sponsored study conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The purpose of the study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of constructing a national ballistics imaging database by which casings found at the scene of a crime could be matched, with the intent of uniquely determining the gun which originated the casing. This talk will discuss both the designed experiment which NIST conducted for this study, and the methodologies used for the subsequent statistical analysis.


Hal Stern (UC Irvine)
Discussant

Friday 11:30-12:00, Fountain I