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Introduction
Computerized Facial Composite Systems in Law Enforcement
Corissa Alsberry
April 17, 2013


Eyewitness identification has always relied on facial composite images to begin the investigating process for law enforcement. When a witness is unsure who the suspect is, the witness is asked to participate in a multistep process of constructing a facial image through memory that resembles the offender. This process includes describing the facial features and selecting specific aspects of the face to produce a constructed version of the offender to make a facial composite. Law enforcement agencies typically relied on forensic/ sketch artists in the past but this technique is now being replaced by computerized systems that are controlled by a police officer (McQuiston-Surrett, Topp & Malpass, 2006). Computerized facial composite systems allow the identification process to be conducted in an easy, more efficient manner which increases the chances of a precise facial composite. However, there are many factors that contribute to the accuracy of facial composites developed by a witness that need to be addressed before relying heavily on the new development in technology.