Virtual Reality (VR) is emerging as a transformative tool in crime scene investigation (CSI), offering immersive training environments and enhanced crime scene analysis capabilities. This paper presents a systematic review of recent advances in VR applications for CSI over the last five years (2020–2025). A total of 27 peer-reviewed studies were analyzed to identify prevailing application domains, methodologies, benefits, and unresolved challenges. Key focus areas include VR-based training simulations for investigators, 3D crime scene reconstruction and walkthroughs, and virtual evidence presentation in courtroom settings. The review finds that VR training systems significantly improve user engagement and skill acquisition, while VR reconstructions enable investigators to revisit and analyze crime scenes with high fidelity, integrating diverse evidence types in a single interactive environment. However, challenges such as technical complexity, validation of accuracy, and legal admissibility of VR-generated evidence remain. To address these gaps, we outline recommendations including the integration of artificial intelligence for automated evidence analysis, development of standard protocols for virtual evidence handling, and user studies to evaluate effectiveness across agencies. The findings underscore VR’s considerable potential to augment forensic investigations and training, while highlighting the need for further research to ensure reliability, user adoption, and acceptance in judicial processes.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Immersive Technology Virtual Reality (VR) in Crime Scene Analysis & Investigation: A Systematic Review

  • Chiamaka Femi-Adeyinka,
  • Bing Zhou

摘要

Virtual Reality (VR) is emerging as a transformative tool in crime scene investigation (CSI), offering immersive training environments and enhanced crime scene analysis capabilities. This paper presents a systematic review of recent advances in VR applications for CSI over the last five years (2020–2025). A total of 27 peer-reviewed studies were analyzed to identify prevailing application domains, methodologies, benefits, and unresolved challenges. Key focus areas include VR-based training simulations for investigators, 3D crime scene reconstruction and walkthroughs, and virtual evidence presentation in courtroom settings. The review finds that VR training systems significantly improve user engagement and skill acquisition, while VR reconstructions enable investigators to revisit and analyze crime scenes with high fidelity, integrating diverse evidence types in a single interactive environment. However, challenges such as technical complexity, validation of accuracy, and legal admissibility of VR-generated evidence remain. To address these gaps, we outline recommendations including the integration of artificial intelligence for automated evidence analysis, development of standard protocols for virtual evidence handling, and user studies to evaluate effectiveness across agencies. The findings underscore VR’s considerable potential to augment forensic investigations and training, while highlighting the need for further research to ensure reliability, user adoption, and acceptance in judicial processes.