A 3D printed skull has been hailed as a “game-changing” piece of evidence in securing the convictions of four men for murder.
The University of Portsmouth developed the model to showcase the injuries sustained by Frazer Brabant, a 31-year-old man who was attacked in a Basingstoke garden on October 31, 2019.
All four men were found guilty of murder on June 7, 2023, following an intensive eight-week trial at Winchester Crown Court.
Assisting significantly in the case, Dr. Morgan Lowther, from the University of Portsmouth, collaborated with Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Imaging Unit to create the 3D printed replica using a digital model. This replica helped bring clarity to the jury by visually demonstrating the extent of the victim’s injuries.
Before his untimely death on January 21, 2020, Mr. Brabant spent nearly three months in the hospital due to severe head injuries sustained in the assault. These hospital-standard scans were used to accurately reconstruct the anatomy.
Dr. Lowther explained that the pathologist used the 3D printed skull to guide the jury through Mr. Brabant’s injuries. Notably, jurors were allowed to examine the replica during their deliberations.
According to Dr. Lowther, the replica allowed the pathologist to illustrate the sequence of the blows, the angles they were delivered from, and whether they originated from the same assailant or weapon. It served as crucial evidence to help the jury comprehend the severity of the attack.
The individuals convicted were Forhad Miah (32), Scott Neale (35), James O’Connor (25), and Lee Wood (32) from Basingstoke. Additionally, Ricky Lewis (40) from Basingstoke was found guilty of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.
Describing the 3D printed skull as a “game-changer,” Detective Sergeant Dan Hunt emphasized its pivotal role in bringing the case to trial and ensuring justice for Frazer Brabant and his family. The evidence ultimately led to the imprisonment of the offenders.
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