The exhibition Building Public Truths presents three investigations into police violence, conducted by Forensic Architecture, Forensis and Index, which used spatial instruments to analyse, test and challenge the formal processes surrounding the cases.

We are presenting these ‘counter-forensics’ in opposition to the investigations conducted under the direction or supervision of the authorities. This work often involves collaborating with local civil rights agencies, such as the Dutch organisation Controle Alt Delete.

Sammy Baker, Sean Rigg and Luis Bico

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.