Professor Charlie Frowd’s EvoFit system has been used to generate an image of Derek Ferguson, who is wanted for murder
A University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) academic has worked with Police Scotland to help the search for a fugitive wanted for a murder committed 16 years ago.
Derek Ferguson, now aged 59 years, is wanted in connection with the murder of Thomas Cameron outside a public house in Auchinairn Road, Bishopbriggs on Thursday, 28 June 2007.
An international warrant remains in place for his arrest and as part of the continuing investigation, officers can release new information about Ferguson’s possible appearance and animated images of what he may look like now.
Officers from Police Scotland’s Fugitive Active Search Unit (FAST) have enlisted the assistance of a forensic psychologist – who has created an EvoFIT* to create images of what Ferguson may look like today.
Working with UCLan’s Professor Charlie Frowd, Police Scotland investigators have used the innovative software to generate a composite image of Ferguson based on his expected ageing and health.
Detective Chief Superintendent (DCS) Vicky Watson said: “Our officers have carried out painstaking enquiries and research over the years to trace Ferguson and the new images released are as a result of our investigations and the current intelligence picture surrounding his appearance.
“I would like members of the public to look at these images and get in touch with the investigation team if you recognise him and, most importantly, have information about his current whereabouts.”
"Partnership working is extremely important in our efforts to arrest and extradite Ferguson to face justice in Scotland"
— Vicky Watson, Detective Chief Superintendent for Police Scotland
He is described as being between 5’2” and 5’6” in height, with a small scar on his right jaw line, a small piece missing from the top of his left ear and was known to have various tattoos on his forearms, including a heart and a dagger.
Officers leading the search for Ferguson have also consulted a number of experts, including a Behavioural Scientist and a Geographical profiler, as well as digital and cyber specialists, to piece together Ferguson’s movements.
Intelligence gathered leads them to believe that he may have travelled between The Netherlands and Spain.
DCS Watson added: “Officers have pieced together the recent movements of Derek Ferguson. I would now like to appeal directly to the local communities in the southern areas of The Netherlands, Barcelona, the south coast of Spain and the Balearic Islands to look at these images and get in touch if you have seen him or know where he is.”
FAST has worked closely with the National Crime Agency and partners such as Spanish and Dutch police.
"I would like members of the public to look at these images and get in touch with the investigation team if you recognise him and, most importantly, have information about his current whereabouts"
— DCS Vicky Watson
DCS Watson added: “Partnership working is extremely important in our efforts to arrest and extradite Ferguson to face justice in Scotland. I am grateful to the NCA and our international law enforcement partners for their continued commitment to our investigation.
“Despite 16 years having past, our investigation to trace Ferguson continues and underlines our unwavering commitment to achieve justice for the family of Thomas Cameron.”
A reward of up to £10,000, offered by the independent charity, Crimestoppers, is available to anyone who contacts them anonymously with information which helps lead to the arrest of Ferguson.
DCS Watson said: “I am aware that over the passage of time, loyalties and relationships change.
“The reward being offered by Crimestoppers is welcome and means that if you do not want to speak to Police Scotland, you can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 – or complete a form anonymously on its website.”
A dedicated website giving members of the public access to a form to send information directly to the Enquiry Team exists and anyone submitting information can select to remain anonymous.
*Professor Charlie Frowd created EvoFIT, a recognition based facial-composite system, which has assisted in identifying and apprehending criminals wanted for the most serious of crimes worldwide.