Issue link: http://lawandordermag.epubxp.com/i/189636
In 2009, NIST initiated the Iris Exchange program (IREX) in support of an expanded marketplace of iris-based applications based on standardized interoperable iris imagery. Since that time, the program has addressed a number of issues, such as the effects of compression on accuracy, the effectiveness of image-quality assessment algorithms, and the evaluation of one-tomany iris algorithms. Mobile Iris for Law Enforcement The BI2 Technologies Inmate Identification and Recognition System (IRIS) is designed for mobile use in correctional facilities. T he use of mobile biometric devices in law enforcement applications allows rapid identifcation of individuals during feld operations, and provides enhanced offcer safety. While fngerprint technology remains the primary methodology used, facial and iris recognition are quickly gaining ground. In fact, the FBI is currently expanding its biometric database to include iris scan collection and plans to conduct an iris pilot by 2014. Considered the most accurate of the biometrics modalities, iris recognition determines the identity of an individual by capturing a high-resolution digital photograph of the iris and then comparing that image against a database for identifcation. Iris Recognition as an Emerging Technology Many industry experts believe that the use of iris recognition will continue to expand, due primarily to its enhanced accuracy and the unique attributes of the human iris. The pattern of the human iris is formed in infancy and remains unchanged throughout one's lifetime, making the probability of two irises producing the same code nearly impossible. It is a non-intrusive, non-contact method of biometric identifcation that provides quicker response times and greater accuracy. Because iris recognition technology has historically exhibited an exceptionally low false positive rate, it is ideally suited for conclusive one-to-many matching and one-to-one authentication. Iris recognition systems analyze the features in the colored tissue surrounding the pupil, which has more than 200 points that can be used for comparison, including rings, furrows and freckles. After the digital photo of the iris pattern is taken, an encrypted digital template is re-created using complex image processing algorithms, and the iris pattern is then compared against images stored in a database. According to a recent report from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), iris recognition technology had a 90 to 99 percent accuracy rate when used to identify an individual from a crowd. A recognized leader in the development and implementation of multimodal biometric identity management solutions, BI2 Technologies, Inc. offers an iris recognition system designed for use in correctional facilities. The Inmate Identifcation and Recognition System (IRIS™) positively identifes inmates and visitors using the most mathematically unique biometric—the iris. The company used existing iris recognition algorithms and camera technologies to build IRIS, which has been sold to more than 320 law enforcement agencies in 47 states. Sheriff's Offices and correctional facilities utilize IRIS technology for essential responsibilities, such as arrest, intake and booking, and visitation. With IRIS, the identity and criminal history of an inmate can be quickly verifed by scanning the iris when admitted and later discharged from the correctional facility. The devices are designed to increase security and prevent the wrong prisoner from being released. In fact, when an inmate escaped in 2011 from a correctional facility in Cranston, R.I. using the mangled photo identifcation of an inmate who was eligible for parole, the Department of Corrections acted on its plan to implement the IRIS solution. MorphoTrak, a high-technology company in the Safran group, is a market leader in identifcation and detection solutions deployed in over 100 countries. MorphoEyes is their latest dual-iris capture solution for civil identity management and law enforcement markets. It supports capture, enrollment, fusion-based search and match, and verifcation with concurrent auto-capture of both irises. Lightweight, rugged, and user-friendly, MorphoEyes can be quickly deployed and integrated into existing systems. "Adding MorphoEyes to an existing LiveScan system is an easy upgrade allowing law enforcement to begin capture of IRIS images www.lawandordermag.com 75