SLAMorris Final Thesis After Corrections.pdf - Cranfield University

evidence being extracted is crucial to showing the reliability of analysts findings,
the ACPO guidelines provide the principles necessary to ensure the reliability is
not compromised.
Principle 1 highlights the importance of ensuring the original data has not been
altered, as it allows the methodology used by the analyst to be tested by
another analyst. By using an image of the original media and the same
methodology it is possible to establish if the result is repeatable.
Comparing the hashes of different sources is one way an analyst can show a
relationship between information; another way is by creating an audit trail
[ACPO, 2010]. Clearly documenting the steps taken to retrieve the evidence
being used in court allows the analyst to show that any information produced in
his report as evidence is accurate and reliable; this is reflected by principle
three. Audit trails help ensure consistency in the approach taken as the act of
documenting actions encourages the analyst to consider his behaviour to
ensure it is justifiable.
Following the ACPO good practice guide [2010] will ensure the reliability of
evidence is maintained, particularly with regard to being competent and able to
justify any action taken. The audit log suggested by the ACPO guidelines in
principle 3 allows for results to be reproduced, which is an important scientific
method for ensuring the reliability of any evidence found. Principle four
stipulates who is ultimately responsible for ensuring the principles are adhered
to. In a large case it may be difficult for a single individual to monitor every
action being carried out, therefore it is necessary for each analyst to be
responsible for their own actions and ensure they follow the principles.
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