Commune criminality, such as theft, burglary, violence, attacks, small-scale drugs trading, is frequently occurring, affecting many people both financially and emotionally, but often remain unsolved. This is due to limited capacity and because current analysis of relevant traces is often not providing enough intelligence. Improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the investigation specifically at the crime scene, will increase the success rate in solving cases.
In this project we aim to develop innovative tools, that are able to cost-effectively and accurately detect and analyse traces rapidly at the crime scene. The first innovative device is a rapid test (similar to SARS-CoV-2 self-tests), based on lateral flow technology, to determine whether there is sufficient DNA in a sample at the crime scene (for further profiling). The second tool is a microfluidic device to establish at the crime scene if biological traces belong to the same individual (victim/suspect). For both devices, we will develop and integrate decision support systems that assist crime scene investigators on how to use the tools and how to interpret the results. In close collaboration with all partners in the criminal justice system we will test and validate these tools, taking into consideration the judiciary, behavioral, societal and ethical aspects that come with implementing these in the forensic practice.
These results not only save time and costs with respect to the methodology, but also provides immediate guidance in the criminal investigation, making the investigation faster and more efficient.
The intended societal impact of this project is to improve the trust and confidence of citizens in the government and law enforcement agencies and increasing their sense of security, as the innovative technology enables the law enforcement agencies to do their work more efficiently and effectively, both in terms of costs and number of cases solved.
