Digital Automotive Image System

Solving a terrorist investigation involving motor vehicles often requires quick access to images and data about cars. Southwest Research Institute developed a system that gives investigators this capability. The system, which fits entirely on one DVD, has front, side, and rear photos of motor vehicles commercially manufactured in the last twenty years. The data is searchable by vehicle category, body style, number of doors and other characteristics. It can generate "Be on the Lookout"-type posters and produce photo line-ups. The basic design allows for periodic updating to keep the database current. The DVD permits an unlimited number of downloads of the system to computer hard drives. The developer has distributed about 20,000 of the DVDs to Federal, State and local law enforcement and counterterrorism agencies throughout the United States. Requests for additional information should be sent to DAIS@leo.gov.