ACPO 2009

Question 1

In the context of the Association of Chief Police Officers Facial Identification
Guidance document (2009) what is the purpose of morphing?

Answer 1

Morphing is used to facilitate familiar face recognition when an offender has been seen by multiple observers.

Morphing the different facial composites can create a more accurate image of the offender.

Question 2

similar to matching fingermarks to fingerprints.

how is morphing achieved?

Answer 2

• Morphing is achieved by locating corresponding ‘landmarks’ on each composite and positioning them over each other, ensuring they are aligned.
• To do this there must be a significant amount of landmarks to ensure the composites align properly.