A composite drawing is an artistic rendering showing a likeness or similarity of a person or object. A composite drawing is not considered a portrait of an individual, instead it is a two-dimensional record of someone's memory. It is considered a tool of identification, elimination and corroboration.
Some of the major uses of a composite drawing are to record the memory of a witness or victim. This drawing may then be recognized through other people leading to an identification of the suspect. It also helps in eliminating other suspects who do not resemble the composite. A drawing can strengthen a witness's statement. Also, during the time the drawing is being made, the witness may recall other valuable information for the investigator.
Composite drawings have included the faces of suspects, unidentified and/or decomposing bodies, reconstruction of skeletal remains, and age enhancements for missing children or known suspects.
Interestingly, a composite drawing is not restricted to pictures of people. A drawing can also include descriptions of weapons, jewelry, vehicles, tattoos, clothing and artifacts.
Composite art can then fall under the category of Forensic Art. Forensic Art is defined as any art that is used in conjunction with legal proceedings.
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Rev.: 12/24/2008