Federal Criminal Expert Bruno Pitanga Maia on the Jefferson Case: How 3D Laser Scanning Transformed the Investigation

Leica Geosystems interview with Bruno Costa Pitanga Maia, a distinguished federal crime scene investigation expert from the Brazil Federal Police, offers a compelling exploration of how advanced 3D reality capture technology is transforming forensic investigations in Brazil. With over twenty-five years of experience, Bruno recounts his journey from the computer crimes unit to the bomb squad and, most recently, to the crime scene unit in Brasilia, where he specialises in 3D reconstruction using scanners and drones to document organised crime scenes.

A focal point of the discussion is a high-profile case involving former congressman Roberto Jefferson, who violently resisted arrest by attacking federal police officers with gunfire and explosives. Bruno describes how his team was called upon due to their unique 3D scanning capabilities, which are available in only a few states across Brazil. The forensic team faced the challenge of reconstructing the crime scene after the police vehicle, which had been the main target, was removed. By employing the RTC360 laser scanner and Leica Cyclone 3DR software, they meticulously scanned both the scene and the vehicle at different locations, later aligning the data to accurately reproduce the original events. This process enabled them to estimate the precise position of the car and the trajectory of the shots, providing critical evidence for the investigation.

Throughout the interview, Bruno emphasises the importance of 3D reality capture technology in modern forensic work. He explains that such technology significantly reduces the time required to process complex crime scenes, which would otherwise demand painstaking manual measurements and sketches, especially when hundreds of pieces of evidence are involved. The conversation highlights not only the technical expertise of the Brazil Federal Police but also their commitment to adopting innovative solutions that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of criminal investigations. The insights shared by Bruno underscore the vital role of digital transformation in upholding justice and advancing public safety in Brazil.

Customer: Bruno Costa Pitanga Maia
Federal Crime Expert, Brazil Federal Police