Principles of Forensic Audio Analysis

Abstract

Audio forensics is an essential specialty in modern forensic science. This book pro- vides the fundamental background necessary to understand and participate in this exciting and important field of study. Modern audio forensic analysis combines skills in digital signal processing, the physics of sound propagation, acoustical pho- netics, audio engineering, and many other fields. Scientists and engineers who work in the field of audio forensics are called upon to address issues of authenticity, quality enhancement, and signal interpretation for audio evidence that is important to a criminal law enforcement investigation, an accident investigation board, or an official civil inquiry of some kind. Expertise in audio forensics has never been more important. Common recordings from emergency call centers and police radio dispatch continue to be important. Yet today it is the fact that inexpensive portable audio/video recording systems are now in such widespread use that forensic evidence from the scene of a civil or criminal incident increasingly involves dashboard recorders in police cars, vest-pocket per- sonal recorders worn by law enforcement officers, smartphone recordings from bystanders, and security surveillance systems in public areas and businesses. These increasingly ubiquitous audio recording devices will undoubtedly increase the quantity and quality of audio forensic material available for many investigations. Utilizing new research findings and both historical and contemporary casework examples, this book blends audio forensic theory and practice in a manner intended for any scientifically literate reader. Extensive examples, supplementary material, and bibliographic references are also included for those who are interested in delv- ing deeper into the field