There has been numerous discussions in the past on the use of digital photgraphy for the use in the documentation of fire scenes. Some of the discussion has centered around the ability to alter images and how technology is being developed to identify when photos have been manipulated to prevent this from happening.

I understand that this is a potential situation and I also understand that one can enhance a photo for better clarity (and discloses such). I am interested in the situation where someone has altered or manipulated an image(s) (with no disclosure) to try and change the data and the outcome of a fire case. Has anyone experienced this situation ( in a fire or a non-fire case) where digital photos or film negatives have been shown to have been altered for the purposes of supporting an alternative conclusion?

I have not run across a situation where an image has been altered or manipulated for the purposes of supporting an opinion that otherwise could not be rendered had the photo not been altered or manipulated. I am interested to see if others have. Any comments would be appreciated.

Sincerely,

Doug Carpenter

Douglas J. Carpenter, MScFPE, CFEI, PE, FSFPE
Vice President & Principal Engineer
Combustion Science & Engineering, Inc.
8940 Old Annapolis Road, Suite L
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 884-3266
(410) 884-3267 (fax)
www.csefire.com