CRIME, colours and patterns

Abstract

What makes a crime a crime? The Mens Rea (il-hsieb, il-kilba, it-tektik fil-mohh biex tfassal pjan malinn….) and the Actus Reus (l-azzjoni, il-fatt, li sar sar) play within a duality: a duality that investigators delve into through their deductive or inductive approaches. However, can we attempt to understand the phenomenon using new processes, new technologies and new trends of thought? Understanding Crime through Visualisation is an approach that is slowly gaining ground through the field of spatial forensics. Over the past years, the Department of Criminology has developed processes that help in recreating crime scenes that seek to aid investigators in their striving for justice. The use of high-end technologies such as drones, ground-penetrating radar, LiDAR (laser) and applications enable the recreation of the virtual crime scene as well as leading to the creation of immersive simulation potentials. This combined with GIS produces an easy to understand visual image or 3D scene that one can view through screens, virtual reality devices and soon holography. Patterns, movements and immersion posit fertile fields for criminologists, investigators and of course criminals. Are we predicting future crimes and their mitigation? Can we be as prepared as the potential offender? Colours, images and patterns speak volumes. Lets listen to understand what they are saying…