Scene Investigation from the Sky: Current and Future Uses of Unoccupied Aerial Systems in Forensic Investigations

ABSTRACT Unoccupied aerial systems (UAS; otherwise known as Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV), or drones) are a rapidly developing technology, with useful applications across a variety of industries. UAS are slowly becoming part of everyday practice across the emergency services, including the police and forensic services. Many UK police services own UAS and use them for everyday policing tasks like searching for missing persons or monitoring crowds. The ways in which UAS technology currently support other areas of policing, including support services such as forensic scene investigations, remain unclear. This article critically reviews varied, multidisciplinary literature to develop a picture of current UAS practice in policing and forensic scene investigations. Focus is placed on the UK as an example country where UAS integration into policing practice is ongoing. Consideration is given to future opportunities, and both the benefits and challenges of integrating UAS into forensic scene investigations. Knowledge gaps are highlighted and demonstrate that implementing new technologies in a rapidly evolving world is undeniably complex, yet the opportunity to innovate, advance and enhance forensic scene investigation practice should not be overlooked.