Baier, Waltraud (2019) Applications of micro-CT in the Criminal Justice System of England and Wales: an impact assessment. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

The Criminal Justice System of England and Wales is currently facing major challenges. One is the financial pressure of government funding cuts, the other the increasing need for professionalisation and rigour within the system. This thesis presents the use of micro Computed Tomography, Additive Manufacturing, and 3D visualisation to address both challenges. By drawing on data from live murder investigations the project examines how these digital technologies can be used to improve the investigation of strangulation deaths, sharp force injuries, and fractures. Each of these categories was treated as a separate case in the overall multiple-case study research design. The increased detail enabled by micro-CT assisted pathologists in the diagnosis of strangulation as previously undetected injuries of the larynx could be identified. A validation study comparing injured to uninjured samples was conducted to increase the strength of the interpretations. For sharp force injuries analysis, micro-CT proved useful for providing the necessary injury characteristics and highly accurate measurements to allow weapon identification. The high resolution of micro-CT scanning also enabled the visualisation of trauma on the smallest of skeletal elements, often encountered in non-accidental injuries in children. The cross-case synthesis revealed the main themes of clarity, objectivity, and visualisation which were improved by using micro-CT irrespective of type of homicide. The significance of these themes further crystallised in semi-structured interviews conducted with various stakeholders of the Criminal Justice System. Management concepts proved suitable to assess the project’s success as the themes used in operations management such as quality, delivery, and cost apply to the delivery of justice as well. A good working relationship with West Midlands Police’s homicide investigators and researchers at WMG was crucial to providing the technology and expertise to address real-life problems whilst ultimately saving taxpayers’ money.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Subjects:	K Law [Moys] > KM Common Law, Public Law Q Science > QA Mathematics
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Microcomputed tomography, Criminal law -- England, Criminal law -- Wales
Official Date:	May 2019
Dates:	Date Event May 2019 Published
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Warwick Manufacturing Group
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Williams, Mark ; Warnett, Jay
Format of File:	pdf
Extent:	xvi, 247 leaves: illustrations, charts, plates
Language:	eng

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