Amped
User Days
2025 Agenda
SEPTEMBER 9-11, 2025
Discover three days of focused sessions on video forensics workflows, deepfake forensics, CSAM investigations, proprietary format handling and conversion, and the latest features in Amped FIVE, Authenticate, and Replay.
Each day ends with expert roundtables exploring real-world challenges and innovations in forensic video analysis.
Day 1 - September 9th
Amped: Software and Much More!
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Globally, at least 50% of crimes go unsolved, and digital media often holds the key. Amped Software empowers users with robust tools to analyze and enhance multimedia evidence, yet our commitment extends far beyond software development. We strive to reduce unsolved crimes and prevent wrongful convictions through a holistic approach: actively incorporating user feedback, providing exceptional support and training, fostering a vibrant expert community, and collaborating with international networks and policymakers to advance the responsible use of video evidence. This presentation will showcase Amped Software's comprehensive ecosystem – our products, services, and the impactful initiatives driving our mission to improve security and justice worldwide.
The Real Real: Using Amped Authenticate for Image and Video Integrity, Authenticity, and Source Analysis
Marco Fontani
Forensics Director
Marco Fontani is the Forensics Director at Amped Software, a software company developing image and video forensic solutions for law enforcement agencies worldwide.
He earned his MSc in Computer Engineering in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Information Engineering in 2014. His research focused on image watermarking and multimedia forensics. He participated in several research projects funded by the EU and EOARD, and authored/co-authored over 30 journal and conference proceedings papers. He has experience in delivering training to law enforcement and provided expert witness testimony on several forensic cases involving digital images and videos. He is a former member of the IEEE Information Forensics and Security Technical Committee, and he actively contributed to the development of ENFSI’s Best Practice Manual for Image Authentication.
Blake Sawyer
US Operations Director
Blake joined Amped Software in 2019 when the Amped US branch was established. Before, he worked for the Plano Police Department, establishing the digital media unit of their Crime Scene Unit. As Amped’s US Operations Director, he ensures users in the US and Canada get the best help and service on a daily basis.
He is certified as a LEVA Forensic Video Analyst and an IAI Certified Forensic Video Examiner. Before joining Amped, he taught courses with LEVA (Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association) and served on their board. As part of his priority in helping video examiners better understand the scientific workflow of Video Forensics, he is the chair of the AI subcommittee for SWGDE (Scientific Working Group for Digital Evidence) and participates in the Video subcommittee at OSAC (Organization of Scientific Area Committees).
When he isn't working, he is most often found in the garage building a rocket powered by an old arcade machine to save the world from Space Invaders or driving his kids from one practice to another.
How often do you see, either in casework or in the news, talk about deepfakes, "cheap fakes", and manipulated media? If only there were a way to sort through what's fake and what's "real". This presentation will review the definition of integrity and authenticity verification. Then, we’ll walk through some case examples showing the power of Amped Authenticate’s algorithms, with a focus on tools and features that recently entered the software. We’ll see examples of deepfake detection, forgery detection, image and video source and coding analysis, and how to build a compelling and comprehensive forensic report using Authenticate’s projects and annotations features.
Image Comparison Analysis: Becoming an ACE-V Pro with Amped FIVE
Alexander Fehrmann
Trainer and Technical Support Specialist
Alexander joined Amped Software in June 2024 as a Trainer and Technical Support Specialist.
Alexander's journey in forensic media technology began with his role at the Forensic Commissariat of the Salzgitter Police Inspectorate, where he was actively involved in crime scene investigation and document examination. During this period, he also became an active member of expert groups focused on quality standards in forensic photography.
In 2009, Alexander embarked on a two-and-a-half-year training course to become a professional photographer. After completing his training, he worked as a freelance photographer for several years in advertising photography and event photography. In 2017, he completed forensic training for crime scene work with the police.
Since August 2021, Alexander has been a part of the Lower Saxony State Criminal Police Office. In this capacity, he specialized in forensic photography, multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, 3D imaging, and video forensics. As the lead trainer at the Lower Saxony Police Academy, he excelled in planning and conducting workshops on advanced forensic techniques.
Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys staying active by working out and spending time outdoors on long walks whenever possible.
Melissa Kimbrell
Trainer and Technical Support Specialist
Melissa Kimbrell has been a member of the Amped Software team as a Trainer and Technical Support Specialist since May 2022. Before coming to Amped Software, she worked as a Forensic Scientist focusing on Audio/Video Forensics and Photography at The Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory in Austin, Texas, where she still lives.
She has taught the Main FIVE class, both online and in-person, and is always available to help users understand a proper workflow to process their video evidence. Melissa is a member of the Video and Imaging Technology and Analysis Subcommittee of the Digital Multimedia Scientific Area Committee (OSAC).
In the summer you can find her floating a river or whitewater rafting; in the winter, you can find her on the ski slopes. When she isn't in one of those places, she's doing a Peloton workout or cuddled up with her dogs and her firefighter husband.
Digital image processing is a large part of examinations of comparison quality images of friction ridges, footwear impressions, tire impressions, and other evidential material. This lecture will demonstrate how a proper scientific workflow from the ACE-V method through the generation of a forensic report can be achieved using Amped FIVE.
Roundtable: AI, Deepfakes, and Emerging Challenges in Forensic Video Analysis
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Marco Fontani
Forensics Director
Marco Fontani is the Forensics Director at Amped Software, a software company developing image and video forensic solutions for law enforcement agencies worldwide.
He earned his MSc in Computer Engineering in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Information Engineering in 2014. His research focused on image watermarking and multimedia forensics. He participated in several research projects funded by the EU and EOARD, and authored/co-authored over 30 journal and conference proceedings papers. He has experience in delivering training to law enforcement and provided expert witness testimony on several forensic cases involving digital images and videos. He is a former member of the IEEE Information Forensics and Security Technical Committee, and he actively contributed to the development of ENFSI’s Best Practice Manual for Image Authentication.
Gernot Schmied
Forensic Expert Witness
Gernot Schmied is a court-certified expert in multimedia forensics, specializing in the analysis of audio, video, images, screenshots, and embedded media in formats such as PDFs and emails. With a background in information technology and applied physics, he operates a forensic lab based in Vienna, Austria. His work focuses on cases within the continental European legal system, particularly in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. This legal framework differs significantly from common law systems, especially in procedures like discovery and evidence evaluation.
Paolo del Checco
Digital Forensics Consultant, Expert Witness, Contract Professor
Paolo Dal Checco holds a PhD in Computer and Network Security from the University of Turin, where he conducted research in cryptography and information security. He specializes in computer, network, and mobile forensics, and is the author of numerous articles, papers, and patents. A regular speaker at Italian and European conferences, courses, and workshops, he frequently shares insights on digital forensics and investigative methodologies. Currently CEO of Forenser Srl, an Italian digital forensics consulting firm, Paolo is actively engaged in daily investigations involving OSINT, mobile devices, computer systems, and network analysis. His work increasingly focuses on cutting-edge topics such as audio and video forensics, deep fake analysis and identification, cryptocurrency investigations, and blockchain analysis. His research interests include cryptoasset forensics, deanonymization of addresses and transactions, smart contract analysis, ransomware prevention, anti-money laundering strategies, and dark/deep web investigations.
The increasing use of AI-generated content, especially deepfakes, is raising new questions and complexities in forensic video analysis. This roundtable offers a space to discuss how these technologies are shaping real casework, the kinds of manipulation experts are encountering, and the tools and techniques proving most effective for detection and analysis. This session invites you to share experiences, raise challenges, and consider how forensic video analysis is evolving in response to AI.
Roundtable: AI, Deepfakes, and Emerging Challenges in Forensic Video Analysis
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Blake Sawyer
US Operations Director
Blake joined Amped Software in 2019 when the Amped US branch was established. Before, he worked for the Plano Police Department, establishing the digital media unit of their Crime Scene Unit. As Amped’s US Operations Director, he ensures users in the US and Canada get the best help and service on a daily basis.
He is certified as a LEVA Forensic Video Analyst and an IAI Certified Forensic Video Examiner. Before joining Amped, he taught courses with LEVA (Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association) and served on their board. As part of his priority in helping video examiners better understand the scientific workflow of Video Forensics, he is the chair of the AI subcommittee for SWGDE (Scientific Working Group for Digital Evidence) and participates in the Video subcommittee at OSAC (Organization of Scientific Area Committees).
When he isn't working, he is most often found in the garage building a rocket powered by an old arcade machine to save the world from Space Invaders or driving his kids from one practice to another.
Cory Winar
Forensic Video Analyst, Eugene Police Department, OR
Cory Winar has been a Forensic Scientist/Analyst for 27 years, the past 10 of which have been with the Eugene Police Department in Eugene, OR, in the Digital Multimedia Evidence section. He is a member of the Forensic Video Examiner Certification Board for the International Association for Identification and an active member of the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence. With Eugene Police, he has been a regular user of Amped FIVE since 2022.
George Reis
CFPh, CFVA – Owner of Imaging Forensics, CA
George Reis is the owner of Imaging Forensics providing Forensic Video and Photographic Analysis to attorneys and training to other analysts. He is certified in FVA through LEVA and in Forensic Photography & Imaging through the IAI.
The increasing use of AI-generated content, especially deepfakes, is raising new questions and complexities in forensic video analysis. This roundtable offers a space to discuss how these technologies are shaping real casework, the kinds of manipulation experts are encountering, and the tools and techniques proving most effective for detection and analysis. This session invites you to share experiences, raise challenges, and consider how forensic video analysis is evolving in response to AI.
Day 2 - September 10th
From Scene to Screen: Amped FIVE's Latest Features for Every Step of the Workflow
David Spreadborough
Forensic Analyst
David served as a UK Police Officer for 24 years, the final 12 of which were spent as a CCTV investigator. He was the first LEVA certified Forensic Video Analyst in Europe and remains one of only four outside of North America. Since working with Amped Software, David has provided a key role in the development of Amped Software’s technical training, as well as spreading his passion for jurisprudence reform through the latest technological innovations. He is still a practicing forensic video analyst and has frequently been called as an expert witness to assist legal teams and law enforcement with on-going criminal investigations.
Inspired by the last five updates of Amped FIVE, David ‘Spready’ Spreadborough will take us on a whistle-stop tour of the most valuable new features released. From the CTU analysis filter to improved annotations, conversion, and presentation features, these updates are designed to streamline your workflow. Packed with practical tips and examples you can use right away, this fast-paced session highlights powerful new tools designed to support every stage of your investigation. Whether you’re a seasoned user or just getting started, this is your shortcut to getting the most out of Amped FIVE’s latest evolution.
CSAM Investigations: The Tools We Need to Meet Emerging Challenges
Lucy Carey-Shields
Forensic Analyst
Lucy Carey-Shields is a forensic analyst with Amped Software, primarily providing technical support to Amped users. Her career started as a front-line officer with UK law enforcement in 2010 where she spent six years before graduating from her degree in computer forensics in 2014, when she shortly afterwards started work in a digital forensics unit alongside her front-line duties. She now has over ten years of law enforcement and digital forensics experience in both video, mobile and computer forensics cases.
Tackling online child abuse is becoming increasingly more challenging. Our world is now even more connected than ever, and it’s reported that most children now have a smartphone along with some sort of social media presence. On top of this, artificial intelligence is well and truly on its way to being integrated into our daily technological lives. In this presentation, we’ll look at the current climate and trends within CSAM investigations, including the impact of AI, and we’ll show you how Amped Software can help, exploring ways to use FIVE and Authenticate for identifying and safeguarding victims of CSAM as quickly as possible.
Amped Replay’s New Features that Save You Time
Emiliano Polito
Forensic Analyst
Emi is an international Trainer at Amped Software and continues to assist Police forces, the CPS and criminal defense firms with the interpretation of video and audio evidence in court. He joined the Amped team in 2021. He has over 20 years of experience in the field of media and imagery and his CV also includes 10 years of employment as a technical director and senior video editor and engineer for a major international broadcaster based in London.
He is a LEVA Certified Forensic Video Analyst and a CCTV recovery, enhancement and analysis expert. He has worked as a forensic video/audio analyst and ISO17025 CCTV technical lead for a number of Police forces and leading forensic providers and has also provided testimony in court as an expert witness on several occasions in the southeastern region of the UK.
When he is not decoding proprietary video or conducting imagery analysis, you will find Emi on a tennis court attempting to be half as good at the sport as his teenage kid. He is also a keen guitar player with a passion for bush flying (and a few PPL hours under his belt).
John Barahona
Trainer and Technical Support Specialist
John Barahona is a retired detective with an impressive 27-year career in law enforcement. He has served in the United States Air Force Security Police and the Mesa Police Department before retiring from the Arizona Department of Public Safety in 2023. During his tenure, he spent over seven years as the sole video and audio forensic detective in the Computer Forensics Unit, specializing in digital evidence analysis.
John holds a bachelor's degree with honors in Computer Information Systems, with a focus on Computer Forensics, from DeVry University. He is also a certified LEVA Forensic Video Technician and a GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner.
In 2023, John joined the Amped Software team, where he now provides expert instruction on the use of Amped FIVE software through both online and onsite training. Additionally, he offers technical support to Amped Software users across North America, leveraging his extensive forensic experience to enhance digital investigations.
Amped Replay has rapidly become the go-to forensic video player for Police officers and investigators alike who are not proficient with video but are in need to quickly review CCTV and other video evidence. Replay helps them speed up investigations and meet charging deadlines. In this presentation, we’ll go through the many recent features we added to the program, which include an intuitive and powerful new motion detection tool, a completely revamped report style and many improved redaction and annotation features. These updates make it easier than ever to find key evidence faster, ensure the integrity of your video, and present it clearly and professionally in court. If you rely on video in your daily work, this session will show you how Replay’s newest tools can help you save time, work more independently, and deliver stronger results.
Roundtable: Tackling Technical Challenges in Video Evidence
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Marco Fontani
Forensics Director
Marco Fontani is the Forensics Director at Amped Software, a software company developing image and video forensic solutions for law enforcement agencies worldwide.
He earned his MSc in Computer Engineering in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Information Engineering in 2014. His research focused on image watermarking and multimedia forensics. He participated in several research projects funded by the EU and EOARD, and authored/co-authored over 30 journal and conference proceedings papers. He has experience in delivering training to law enforcement and provided expert witness testimony on several forensic cases involving digital images and videos. He is a former member of the IEEE Information Forensics and Security Technical Committee, and he actively contributed to the development of ENFSI’s Best Practice Manual for Image Authentication.
Daniela Weiss
Multimedia Forensic Analyst, Baden-Württemberg Bureau of Investigation
Daniela Weiß is a member of the multimedia forensics team in Stuttgart, Germany, working for the state police Baden-Württemberg. She has a background in computer science and specializes in image and video forensics. A lot of her case work involves image enhancement tasks.
Rohit Heera
Digital Forensics Lab Manager, Punjab Police
Experienced Digital Forensic Examiner with 10+ years of specialized expertise in digital investigations, forensic lab management, and cybercrime analysis. Proven record in court-admissible evidence reporting, cross-border investigations, cryptocurrency forensics, and law enforcement training. He is adept at working with global forensic tools and collaborating with multi-jurisdictional teams. Awarded and recognized for excellence in cyber forensics.
Mamoun Alaoui
Director of Acoustics and Video Analysis Institute, Gendarmerie Royale
Colonel Mamoun Alaoui is the Director of the Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie’s Institute for Video and Acoustics Analysis. He holds multiple military and scientific degrees, including an M.Sc. in Robotics, Automation Engineering, Vibration, and Acoustics from The Catholic University of America, and an M.A. in Defense Studies from King’s College London. He is also a graduate of the ACSC, specializing in operational and strategic defense studies and leadership. In addition, Colonel Alaoui has earned several advanced certifications, such as Field Phonetics and Laboratory Phonology from The Ohio State University, and Advanced Forensic Video Analysis and the Law from the University of Indianapolis (LEVA). With a strong background in mathematics, robotics, acoustics, and forensic video analysis, Colonel Alaoui has served as an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Al Akhawayn University and has been appointed as an expert in numerous high-profile judicial cases.
This session focuses on the everyday technical challenges forensic analysts face when working with non-original or poor-quality video. We'll discuss how to assess whether footage is the best available, define what successful clarification looks like, and how technical details like playback speed, aspect ratio, or time validation can impact case outcomes. Participants will share experiences, casework insights, highlight common issues, and reflect on how forensic workflows are evolving in response to these challenges. A practical and open conversation for professionals working closely on technical details that make video evidence reliable.
Roundtable: Tackling Technical Challenges in Video Evidence
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Blake Sawyer
US Operations Director
Blake joined Amped Software in 2019 when the Amped US branch was established. Before, he worked for the Plano Police Department, establishing the digital media unit of their Crime Scene Unit. As Amped’s US Operations Director, he ensures users in the US and Canada get the best help and service on a daily basis.
He is certified as a LEVA Forensic Video Analyst and an IAI Certified Forensic Video Examiner. Before joining Amped, he taught courses with LEVA (Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association) and served on their board. As part of his priority in helping video examiners better understand the scientific workflow of Video Forensics, he is the chair of the AI subcommittee for SWGDE (Scientific Working Group for Digital Evidence) and participates in the Video subcommittee at OSAC (Organization of Scientific Area Committees).
When he isn't working, he is most often found in the garage building a rocket powered by an old arcade machine to save the world from Space Invaders or driving his kids from one practice to another.
Frank Piazza
Forensic Expert Witness, President of Legal Audio Video, NY
Frank Piazza, President of Legal Audio Video, is a Forensic Video Expert and a Forensic Audio Engineer. He is not only a highly experienced technician, he is also a seasoned expert witness who has provided testimony and depositions on approximately 75+ cases for both the defense and the prosecution while maintaining a neutral position on behalf of his clients. Legal Audio Video works closely with private law firms, investigators, federal and state prosecutors, government agencies and other legal professionals across the U.S. and abroad providing forensic audio and video services including; enhancement, analysis, authentication and testimony. Legal Audio Video has offices in West Palm Beach, Florida and New York City, New York.
Ryan Marquart
IT Operations Manager, Village of Pleasant Prairie, WI
Ryan Marquart offers 28 years of experience in audio and video. He is currently serving as the IT Operations Manager embedded with his municipality's police department. His career began as an AV engineer supporting Colorado’s NHL/NBA arena before moving to Wisconsin. In addition to his work in forensic video, he oversees the municipal CCTV system and spearheads public/private CCTV initiatives. Leveraging his certifications as an IAI Forensic Video Examiner, LEVA Forensic Video Analyst, and AVIXA CTS designation, Ryan has contributed to thousands of cases and countless IT/AV projects throughout his career. In his free time, he enjoys playing guitar.
Daniel Faria
Digital Forensic Analyst, MWV Multi-Media Forensics, MA
Dan Faria holds a degree in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Computer Forensics. He is a Digital Forensics Analyst at MWV Multi-Media Forensic Investigative Services, Inc. in Fall River, Massachusetts, bringing more than ten years of casework experience and expert testimony before courts across New England. Dan contributes to professional standards through participation in the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE), High Technology Cyber Investigation Association (HTCIA), and the Massachusetts Association of Crime Analysts. He holds several certifications in the field of digital forensics, including the National White Collar Crime Center, Cellebrite and Amped FIVE. Outside the lab, he is an avid gamer who enjoys spending time with his wife and their collection of exotic pets.
This session focuses on the everyday technical challenges forensic analysts face when working with non-original or poor-quality video. We'll discuss how to assess whether footage is the best available, define what successful clarification looks like, and how technical details like playback speed, aspect ratio, or time validation can impact case outcomes. Participants will share experiences, casework insights, highlight common issues, and reflect on how forensic workflows are evolving in response to these challenges. A practical and open conversation for professionals working closely on technical details that make video evidence reliable.
Day 3 - September 11th
Leading the Way in Proprietary CCTV Format Support and Conversion
Danny Wheeler
Forensic Analyst
Danny Wheeler is a Forensic Analyst at Amped Software. He has been working in the field of video forensics since 2006, earned a degree in Computer Science in 2012 and he completed 4 levels of LEVA training in 2015. He has provided expert witness testimony on many forensic cases as a Forensic Video Analyst and during his time at Amped Software, he has reverse engineered over 100 proprietary CCTV formats.
In today’s rapidly evolving forensic video landscape, managing and converting proprietary CCTV footage from various manufacturers can be a challenging task, and in the world of forensic video analysis, maintaining the integrity of evidence is paramount. Amped Software leverages multi-media frameworks to provide support for a vast number of formats and codecs; however, the Forensic Video Analyst faces many closed/obscure formats which require bespoke procedures to extract streams correctly and maintain accurate timestamps.
This presentation will provide insight into Amped Software’s capabilities in supporting and converting some of these proprietary formats and highlight how we aim to ensure integrity and accuracy for forensic analysis.
Deepfake Forensics with the Newest Authenticate Updates
Massimo Iuliani
Forensic Analyst
Massimo Iuliani has been a member of the Amped Software team as a Forensic Analyst and Trainer since September 2023. In 2017, Massimo achieved a Ph.D. in Mathematics focused on image and video authentication topics. Before coming to Amped, he had worked for ten years within the Dept. of Information Engineering of the University of Florence, on research projects funded by the European Commission and DARPA. All projects were related to the authentication and reverse engineering of multimedia content.
He co-authored over 20 papers in peer-reviewed journals and conferences on multimedia forensics topics.
He has also provided testimony in court as an expert witness in Italy for the analysis and interpretation of image, video, and audio evidence.
Outside the forensic environment, Massimo is a music lover and producer. He is always looking for new links between sounds and feelings.
He supports musicians and songwriters in finding their true sound and bringing their music to light.
Photorealistic fake image generation tools are now widely accessible to internet users, leading to a significant increase in the spread of deepfakes. Their quality is getting so high that the visual analysis is no longer sufficient to recognize them. Addressing this threat requires cutting-edge multimedia forensics tools capable of detecting high-quality synthetic media.
In this presentation, we will introduce the latest features of Amped Authenticate for image authentication and demonstrate their practical application through real-world case studies.
The Impact of AI on Multimedia Forensics
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
This session explores the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on multimedia forensics, addressing its potential, challenges, and concerns in analyzing photo and video evidence. We propose high-level guidelines for AI use in criminal investigations and present applicative examples: facial enhancement, low-quality license plate interpretation, and deepfake detection. For each, we discuss judicial applicability and necessary safeguards. We will also review key court cases and regulatory updates, including the AI Act, to provide a legal perspective on AI's evolving role in video forensics. This session offers forensic practitioners and law enforcement officers a balanced perspective on leveraging AI while upholding scientific and legal standards.
Roundtable: Real Cases, Real Hurdles: Conversion, Access, and Training in Video Forensics
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Marco Fontani
Forensics Director
Marco Fontani is the Forensics Director at Amped Software, a software company developing image and video forensic solutions for law enforcement agencies worldwide.
He earned his MSc in Computer Engineering in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Information Engineering in 2014. His research focused on image watermarking and multimedia forensics. He participated in several research projects funded by the EU and EOARD, and authored/co-authored over 30 journal and conference proceedings papers. He has experience in delivering training to law enforcement and provided expert witness testimony on several forensic cases involving digital images and videos. He is a former member of the IEEE Information Forensics and Security Technical Committee, and he actively contributed to the development of ENFSI’s Best Practice Manual for Image Authentication.
Lars Van Mulligen
Digital Forensics Specialist, Netherlands Labour Authority
Lars van Mulligen works in law enforcement for over 27 years of which 19 years in (digital) forensics and has been using Amped Software since 2012. As an experienced officer he has brought numerous image and video related criminal cases successfully to court with the help of Amped FIVE.
Colin Robinson
Senior lecturer and Programme Leader MSc Audio and Video Forensics, Liverpool John Moores University, School of Engineering
Drawing on four decades of industry experience and a long term user of Amped applications for teaching. Colin passionately champions the integration of forensic science and engineering to strengthen modern investigations, with a keen focus on robust media forensics standards and risk mitigation, particularly the escalating challenges now posed by deep and shallowfake audio to evidence integrity. As the Course Leader for Europe's sole MSc in Audio and Video Forensics at Liverpool John Moores University and a founding member of AFTeR, he established this innovative program through partnerships with Merseyside Police, the College of Policing, NPCC, and FSR Professor Gillian Tully.
Currently, Colin is fostering collaboration between the CJS, Interpol, NPCC, FSR, and CSoFS to develop unified media forensics accreditation, with specific attention to the unique threats of deepfake audio. Recognizing the ease of creating and the potential for malicious use of synthetic audio to deceive, he advocates for International Knowledge Transfer Partnerships to ensure enduring forensic accuracy in media analysis and the vital need for immediate consistent, expert training in audio forensics.
Sarah West
Technical Manager, Forensic Audio Visual Unit, Leicestershire Police
Sarah West is the Audio Visual Technical Manager at Leicestershire Police. She supports the AV team with competency, technical decisions on hardware and software.
She has worked in the Audio Visual unit since 2017, before that she worked in Computer and Mobile phone forensics as well as previous IT roles. She has been involved in implementing Amped Replay to Leicestershire Police Kiosks for officers and staff at police stations. At Leicestershire police in the Digital Hub, Audio Visual unit they are users of Amped FIVE and Amped Authenticate.
Martin Broughton
Technical Manager, Forensic Collision Investigation Unit, Leicestershire Police
Martin Broughton is the Technical Manager for the Forensic Collision Investigation Unit at Leicestershire Police. He supports the unit with all things related to forensic collision investigations and the implementation of ISO accreditation. He was a police officer for 30 years and after retirement returned as a staff Forensic Collision Investigator. He has now been involved in collision investigation for the last 27 years. His main role involves the oversight of equipment, training and competence. The main area of interest at the moment is that of speed estimation from CCTV footage, using the latest software and technologies. He uses Amped FIVE on a regular basis and find it a huge advantage in analyzing any evidential footage.
This roundtable invites experts to share real-world cases that highlight everyday challenges in accessing, converting, and working with proprietary video formats. We’ll explore storage and retrieval hurdles, playback limitations, and how video forensic tools are being used to overcome these technical barriers. The session also considers the evolving landscape of video forensics training: how professionals stay up to date, and whether legal stakeholders, from investigators to judges, are becoming more technically informed. A practical discussion on bridging the gap between technical expertise and courtroom expectations.
Roundtable: Real Cases, Real Hurdles: Conversion, Access, and Training in Video Forensics
Martino Jerian
CEO and Founder
Martino Jerian is the CEO and Founder of Amped Software. He holds a degree in Electronic Engineering (summa cum laude) from the University of Trieste, Italy, where his thesis focused on forensic image processing. In 2008, he founded Amped Software, leading the development of advanced tools for image and video forensics. With a strong background in software engineering, he played a key role in designing and driving the initial development of the company’s products. Martino has been a contract professor in university courses on investigations, forensics, and intelligence. He has authored multiple scientific papers in the field of image and video forensics and has served as a forensic expert in high-profile judicial cases. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the pursuit of security and justice.
Blake Sawyer
US Operations Director
Blake joined Amped Software in 2019 when the Amped US branch was established. Before, he worked for the Plano Police Department, establishing the digital media unit of their Crime Scene Unit. As Amped’s US Operations Director, he ensures users in the US and Canada get the best help and service on a daily basis.
He is certified as a LEVA Forensic Video Analyst and an IAI Certified Forensic Video Examiner. Before joining Amped, he taught courses with LEVA (Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association) and served on their board. As part of his priority in helping video examiners better understand the scientific workflow of Video Forensics, he is the chair of the AI subcommittee for SWGDE (Scientific Working Group for Digital Evidence) and participates in the Video subcommittee at OSAC (Organization of Scientific Area Committees).
When he isn't working, he is most often found in the garage building a rocket powered by an old arcade machine to save the world from Space Invaders or driving his kids from one practice to another.
Kerry Noel
Forensic Video Analyst, Vancouver Police Department, WA
Kerry is a LEVA Certified Forensic Video Technician who has been in her current role of Forensic Video Analyst with the Vancouver Police Department since 2012. Prior to video forensics, Kerry worked as a Broadcast TV Technician, which provided her with a solid audio/video knowledge base to bring into the policing world. Over the course of a hockey riot investigation, years of training and countless other cases, Kerry has seen the industry grow from VHS tapes and early-generation DVRs to the present day video evidence and disclosure challenges faced by forensic video analysts.
Scott Kuntz
Forensic Video Analyst, Owner of Scott Alan Video, LLC, WI
Scott Kuntz is a forensic audio, video and imaging specialist with the IRS-Criminal Investigation forensic lab in Chicago. He retired as a sworn Deputy Sheriff in 2024 after 30 years of service at the Dane County Sheriff's Office in Madison, Wisconsin. Scott has extensive experience in crime scene documentation, covert surveillance, drone surveillance and forensic multimedia evidence analysis. He also has eight years of broadcast television experience with NBC affiliates in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He is certified by IAI and NATIA.
Amanda Cooley
Forensic Video Technician, Omaha Police Department, NE
Amanda Cooley is a highly experienced Forensic Technician with the Omaha Police Department, where she has served in the Forensic Investigations Unit since 2016. A LEVA Certified Forensic Video Technician and IAI Certified Crime Scene Investigator, Amanda specializes in forensic video analysis, crime scene documentation, and aerial scene mapping using advanced sUAS and 3D technologies. She holds an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice and has completed over 1,000 hours of specialized forensic training, including advanced certification in laser scanning, video enhancement, and forensic metrology.
In addition to her technical expertise, Amanda is an accomplished instructor and presenter, having led training sessions on forensic video analysis, drone-based scene mapping, and crime scene documentation at both local and national levels, including the International Association for Identification. She also serves on the LEVA Symposium Curriculum Subcommittee.
Amanda’s commitment to excellence is reflected in multiple commendations and her ongoing contributions to the advancement of forensic science through education, innovation, and field leadership.
This roundtable invites experts to share real-world cases that highlight everyday challenges in accessing, converting, and working with proprietary video formats. We’ll explore storage and retrieval hurdles, playback limitations, and how video forensic tools are being used to overcome these technical barriers. The session also considers the evolving landscape of video forensics training: how professionals stay up to date, and whether legal stakeholders, from investigators to judges, are becoming more technically informed. A practical discussion on bridging the gap between technical expertise and courtroom expectations.