Building Public TruthsBuilding Public Truths

This exhibition brings together three investigations into police violence, which used spatial instruments to analyse, test and challenge the formal processes surrounding the cases. Pioneering research agencies Forensic Architecture, Forensis and Index present their ‘counter-forensics’ in opposition to the investigations conducted under the direction or supervision of the authorities. This often involves collaborating with local civil rights agencies, such as the Dutch organisation Controle Alt Delete.

Forensic counter-investigation is a practice that offers various techniques and tactics to help provide evidence for those who feel excluded, disadvantaged or denied justice by the regular legal process. Counter-forensics are often applied to cases involving state, police or corporate violence. Public analysis, interpretation and debate about the findings are vital to this type of investigation, providing alternative perspectives that can help ensure that justice is served.

The cases presented concern Sammy Baker, Sean Rigg and Luis Bico, who were all victims of fatal incidents involving police violence in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and France, respectively. The counter-investigations into the circumstances surrounding these incidents raise questions about the interplay between police action, mental health and racial profiling in public spaces.

Visitors are guided through the cases by a series of videos, photographs, wall-sized timelines and maps, two- and three-dimensional digital models, and excerpts from archival material including witness statements, official reports, articles of law and social science papers. This variety of media outlines the cases, their legal consequences, and the interaction between the next of kin, the investigative agencies and local partners committed to justice.