Open-Source Satellite Imagery: Valuable Evidence in Your Fort Myers Criminal Case?
If a defendant needs to establish an alibi or anything else of importance during a Fort Myers criminal case, satellite imagery can be surprisingly useful. In the modern era, there is always something watching, and it is easier than ever to access satellite imagery without excessive barriers from government or law enforcement agencies.
What Evidence Can You Collect With Open-Source Satellite Imagery?
The most accurate and advanced satellite imagery is reserved for intelligence and national security agencies in the United States. However, a growing number of commercial providers are offering average citizens access to extremely high-quality satellite imagery without any credentials or security clearances. While it may cost money to access these images, it can be a worthwhile investment to prove an alibi or any other important fact during a criminal case.
The most obvious application of open-source satellite imagery is to track vehicles. While even the most commercial satellite imagery providers cannot read license plates, you can use this imagery to convince the jury that your vehicle was at a certain place at a certain time. For example, a murder may have occurred at a specific residence. If you can prove that your vehicle left the driveway at a certain time, you may be able to push back on allegations.
Generally speaking, satellite imagery is most effective in detecting crimes that occur over a wider geographic area. One potential application is the defense of an arson charge. If you face allegations of starting a wildfire or setting fire to a house, satellite imagery can accurately determine when the fire began and when it started to spiral out of control. These specific timestamped photographs could help you establish an alibi.
Is Satellite Imagery Admissible in Court?
Yes, as long as the satellite imagery is authentic and it comes from a valid source, it should be admissible in court. You may need to obtain authentication from the actual service provider, but this should be a relatively easy step. An expert witness may also need to testify as to the authenticity of the satellite imagery.
Can Satellite Imagery Help Answer Jurisdictional Questions?
Yes, satellite imagery can be extremely useful in answering jurisdictional questions. In United States v. Lizarraga-Tirado, a defendant was able to use satellite imagery to prove that he had never crossed the United States border, and therefore his charges of illegal re-entry were dropped by prosecutors.
Can Satellite Imagery Cast Doubt on Witness Testimony?
Yes, satellite imagery can easily cast doubt on witness testimony. Suppose someone has testified that they saw you committing a crime through a window. By using free-to-use apps like Google Maps, you can “drop a pin” on the witness’ location and prove that their line of sight was actually blocked by another building, a tree, or some other obstruction.
Can a Fort Myers Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me?
If you need to establish an alibi but no one actually saw you at a location, satellite imagery could provide the evidence you need. Even if you were standing in a remote area with no one around, a satellite may have captured you or your vehicle on camera. Consider expanding on this conversation during a consultation with a Fort Myers defense attorney at The Foley & Wilson Law Firm.
Source:
esa.int/Enabling_Support/Preparing_for_the_Future/Discovery_and_Preparation/Satellite_Evidence_in_the_Courtroom