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.