Zak Coronial Inquest and the Interpretation of Photographic Evidence

Abstract

Criticism regarding the objectivity of photographic evidence when used during judicial hearings is beginning to emerge within the forensic and scientific literature. The second coronial inquest into the death of Romuald Todd Zak is a case that highlights the dangers of photographic evidence when inappropriately used to support forensic evidence. The Western Australian State Coroner, Alastair Hope, was highly critical of evidence presented by forensic experts during the second inquest. This article examines Hope’s findings and discusses issues associated with the interpretation and representation of photographic evidence.