Application of the "bubbling" procedure to dead body portraits in forensic identification

Abstract

Purpose A procedure is needed for bodies with disfiguring injuries to the face and the use of their portrait for visual identification.

Method We present the application of a simple image processing procedure, otherwise known as ”bubbling,” which is based on the concept of ”perceptual filling-in,” to images for visual identification in the forensic context. The method is straight forward and can be performed using readily available software and hardware..

Results The method is demonstrated and examples are shown. The visual recognition of known persons using “bubbled” images was successfully tested.

Conclusion The “bubbling” procedure for visual identification enhancement is quick and straightforward and may be attempted before escalating to more involved identification methods and procedures.