22 Jan 2020

Next steps for 'brain-fingerprinting' in solving real crimes

From Nine To Noon, 9:30 am on 22 January 2020
Brain profile showing pre-frontal cortex.

Brain profile showing pre-frontal cortex. Photo: University of Canterbury

New Zealand scientists are taking the next steps in developing Forensic Brainwave Analysis (also known as 'brain-fingerprinting') for solving crimes. The technology works by detecting  brainwaves that indicate whether or not a person has specific knowledge of something. It's hoped eventually the technology could be applied to criminal cases  especially pre-trial investigations as a way of eliminating possible suspects. But what of the ethical concerns ?

Lynn Freeman talks to the director of clinical legal studies at Canterbury University, and project team leader, Professor Robin Palmer.  The New Zealand Law Foundation has funded this three year project

Brainwave pattern from the Grinder case (serial killer)

Photo: supplied