Criminology Research Council grant ; (4/87)
The increasing use by Australian law enforcement agencies of audio and video tape recordings as evidence has resulted in a concomitant increase in workload for those responsible for ensuring that these recordings are managed in a manner which meets all the associated evidentiary requirements.
The initial chapters of the document arise from a detailed examination of the application of magnetic recording technology in all Australian states and territories, as well as overseas.
Through the author documenting his 30 years of practical experience as a highly-skilled practitioner in his field, he has been able to provide a practical guide for those who have chosen to work in the specialist field of law enforcement audio and video recordings.
Subject material dealt with in the report includes:
- evidentiary magnetic recording practices overseas;
- evidentiary electronic recording in Australia;
- expectations of evidentiary recordings;
- producing technically-acceptable recordings;
- authentication of magnetic recordings; and
- preparation of recorded evidence and transcripts for court presentation.
Throughout the Australian law enforcement and judicial system, there is an increasing awareness that technological developments can provide increased productivity and accuracy, if applied correctly.
This report provides an evaluation of audio and video technology and associated procedures which can now contribute significantly to specific areas in the Australian criminal justice system