Called into question

Police and prosecutors trained in 911 call analysis are taught they can identify a perpetrator of a crime simply by listening to how someone speaks during an emergency call. According to proponents of this technique, subtle cues – like a pause, word choice, or tone – may signal guilt. These “guilty indicators” include everything from “extraneous information” to using “awkward phrases.” However, the FBI has warned against using 911 call analysis as direct evidence of deception¹ and found that its use may increase bias.²

Despite the lack of scientific validation, 911 call analysis is increasingly finding its way into courtrooms across the country.³ At Shadow Forensics: Uncovering 911 Call Analysis, you’ll learn about:

• The prevalence of 911 call analysis in courtrooms
• How 911 call analysis is framed and introduced as forensic evidence
• The methodology and assumptions behind the technique
• Key critiques from empirical research findings on language-based forensic analysis
• Spotting red flags in testimony about forensic methods

Shadow Forensics: Uncovering 911 Call Analysis is your opportunity to learn how forensic “truths” can go unchecked and what you can do about it in your next case. 

¹ Miller, M., et al. "911 What's Your Emergency?": Deception in 911  Homicide and Suicide Staged as Homicide Calls. DocumentCloud. Retrieved June 13, 2025, from https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23511999-miller-et-al/

² ProPublica: Is It Forensics or Is It Junk Science?

3 Id. 

Called into question

Police and prosecutors trained in 911 call analysis are taught they can identify a perpetrator of a crime simply by listening to how someone speaks during an emergency call. According to proponents of this technique, subtle cues – like a pause, word choice, or tone – may signal guilt. These “guilty indicators” include everything from “extraneous information” to using “awkward phrases.” However, the FBI has warned against using 911 call analysis as direct evidence of deception¹ and found that its use may increase bias.²

Despite the lack of scientific validation, 911 call analysis is increasingly finding its way into courtrooms across the country.³ At Shadow Forensics: Uncovering 911 Call Analysis, you’ll learn about:

• The prevalence of 911 call analysis in courtrooms
• How 911 call analysis is framed and introduced as forensic evidence
• The methodology and assumptions behind the technique
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