Analytical Tools Primer
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This document provides a brief introduction to analytical tools used in crime analysis, including biometric identification methods, association matrices, link analysis, and activity matrices. Association matrices capture relationships between entities of interest, while activity matrices focus on associations between people and activities. Link analysis software can be used to visually depict connections between entities and convert raw information into understandable charts and diagrams. Additional crime analysis training and resources are available through organizations like the International Association of Crime Analysts.
Analytical Tools Primer
- 1. Analytical Tools (a brief explanation)
- 2. Introduction The intent of this document is to act as a starting point for crime analysts new to the profession. Much of the specific information is recorded in the notes section below the slides. This document should not be considered all inclusive in that there are continuous advancements being made in this field. I highly recommend anyone interested in increasing their level of professionalism in this technical area visit the websites listed or discussed.
- 3. BIOMETRICS DNA Eye retinas and iris recognition Facial features Fingerprints Hand measurements Gait (Walk) Signature Tire/Shoe impressions Typing pattern Voice Recognition
- 4. Association Matrix (sometimes considered the cornerstone of modern investigations) The association matrix is a useful tool for capturing entities of interest and reflecting whether any relationship exists between them. Further the association matrix can reflect the strength (confirmed or suspected) of the relation and the significance of the relationship; key individual
- 5. Link Analysis People Organizations Groups Incidents Connect pieces of information to show relationships between or amongst; Link analysis is a tool used to visually depict the associations between two or more entities of interest. Vehicles Telecommunications Weapons Locations
- 6. Activity Matrix Both examples of the activities matrix will provide the user with essentially the same information. Where the association matrix focuses on who is associated with whom or what item, the activities matrix focuses on who is associated with what activity.
- 7. Putting it Together From these and matrices we can identify Connections between people and organizations or people and events or activities The next step is to convert this raw information into a chart, graph or diagram that can be easily understood.
- 8. Sample Link Diagram Chart created in RF Flow ®
- 9. Sample Link Diagram Chart created in RF Flow ®
- 10. Sample Link Charts Chart created in Analyst Notebook ®
- 11. Link Analysis Software Analyst Notebook ( www.i2inc.com ) RF Flow ( www.rff.com )
- 12. More information regarding how to complete an association matrix, and activities matrix and how to create flow charts can be found by enrolling or attending crime analysis courses. Many of these specialized training courses are available for free or at reasonably low cost. The International Association of Crime Analysts ( www.IACA.net ) is an excellent starting point for those interested in learning more about crime analysis or finding more publications, experts or other resources. Other crime analysis publications can be found through an Internet search using your favorite search tool and by visiting your local library. I hope you find this very brief informational introduction of value. ~ Stay safe Eugene Matthews