Introduction
As the world’s most advanced ballistic identification solution, Ultra Forensics' Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS) has revolutionized forensic ballistics, helped solve hundreds of thousands of crimes worldwide and has solidified its place as an indispensable tool in the modern fight against crime.
This blog post explores the technology behind IBIS – and its impact on law enforcement around the world.
What is Forensic Ballistics?
Forensic ballistics involves the analysis of evidence left by projectiles to identify firearms used in crimes. Typically, this evidence is akin to a “ballistic fingerprint” – unique markings on bullets and cartridge cases that are left behind after discharging a weapon. The study of these markings can link ballistics to firearms—and ultimately, crimes to suspects.
How does IBIS work?
IBIS is a technological weapon in the fight against gun violence.
It works by using BRASSTRAX and BULLETTRAX scanners to digitally capture 2D and 3D images of cartridge cases and bullets, respectively. The advanced scanners identify and highlight unique markings in the ballistic fingerprint which are then stored in a database.
Much like a search engine, IBIS technology extracts data from the ballistic fingerprint and compares it to a database of evidence and testfires. From this search, the IBIS station user can review the results and identify high-confidence matches, to be shared with investigators. IBIS technology’s advanced pattern recognition allows for the rapid development of matches – saving critical time during active investigations.
Each entry builds on an IBIS network database already including millions of bullets and cartridge cases which permit cross-jurisdictional collaboration at a local, regional, national and international level.
The Impact of IBIS
Over the last 30-years, this critical technology has developed leads in countless investigations – active and inactive – and has ultimately, championed the fight against gun violence.
It has also been a ground-breaking tool in solving cold cases. A growing database of forensic evidence has breathed new life into inactive investigations by uncovering connections between crimes which were once thought to be unrelated. In turn, IBIS has helped close these cases and bring closure to those impacted by gun violence.
The speed and accuracy of the technology has made it an invaluable tool for law enforcement agencies and investigators worldwide by streamlining the forensic process, which once relied on error-prone manual methods. By leveraging this technology, investigators have been able to solve cases more efficiently and prevent future crime.
