Pattern detection in forensic case data using graph theory: application to heroin cutting agents.

Pattern recognition techniques can be very useful in forensic sciences to point out to relevant sets of events and potentially encourage an intelligence-led style of policing. In this study, these techniques have been applied to categorical data corresponding to cutting agents found in heroin seizures. An application of graph theoretic methods has been performed, in order to highlight the possible relationships between the location of seizures and co-occurrences of particular heroin cutting agents.

Establishment of an operational system for drug profiling: a Swiss experience.

The present article describes the profiling process developed at the Institute of Forensic Science of the School of Crime Sciences of the Faculty of Law at the University of Lausanne. The technique is oriented towards an operational approach that can be applied directly by drug units of local law enforcement authorities. The background of the development of that technique and issues relating to data sources are outlined.