In 1979, I began my career as an audio engineer and was trained to record and edit spoken word recordings such as training tapes and audio books. I remained a dialog editor using razor blade editing as the only form of audio editing available back then. I used my audio perception (not visual perception, which is how audio editing is executed today) to match voice tone and levels, as well as create smooth content and flow for these products. While employed at Ambience Recordings, I conducted my first audio forensic examination for the FBI in Detroit (case information available on the audioforensicexpert.com blog).

In 1987, I left Ambience to pursue my career as a forensic expert. I attended the University of Detroit from 1979 to 1985 with my major in communication studies and a minor in criminal justice (transcript available upon request). While at the University, I was a probation officer for the 53rd District court in Troy, Michigan under Judge Drury. Since then, I have completed hundreds of successful audio and video forensic investigations, testified in Local, State and Federal courts across the United States and worked on various International cases. I am a member of AES, ACFEI, and IAI. I am a Certified Criminal Investigator (CCI) and a Certified Forensic Consultant (CFC), as well as a member of the American Board of Recorded Evidence with the American College of Forensic Examiners International. I help courts and law enforcement agencies understand the science and technology of audio and video forensics. Voice identification is one of my most sought after services at Primeau Forensics followed by audio and video authentication, clarification/enhancement.

With regard to voice identification, it is scientifically known that we all have distinctive characteristics to our voice and words as well as how we pronounce those words. Each of us has a unique nasal cavity, larynx, teeth, tongue, and mouth. These distinct characteristics all come together and create a unique sounding voice that can be examined and analyzed to determine if the voices in question are from the same person. My forensic philosophy is that authentication and clarification of audio/video media combines art as well as science. The methods that I use require attention to detail and scientific principles, complemented by an appreciation for clarity and aesthetics. My techniques are derived from both a formal education and the application of skills gained by working in many forensics situations. I also look at forensics as an experimental science because there are no two cases that are the same. As a forensic expert I conduct experiments that include variables and that measure how each outcome pertains to the scientific aspect of the case at hand. My forensic processes that I use to arrive at my opinions are accepted in the scientific community and are structured and methodological. I always take scrupulous (work product) notes that are a part of each case. I have provided audio restoration of informant wire recordings that served as key evidence in convictions involving two Detroit area judges. In the course of my career, I have completed dozens of forensics-focused assignments for attorneys throughout the United States. I have testified in Federal, State and Local courts, as well as the Judicial Tenure Commission and the Michigan Public Service Commission.

“Ed Primeau is the best at what he does! As a trial attorney, I depend on experts to educate me in the relevant field for which they are hired. My focus has always been on finding an expert who not only simplifies the subject area, but is also creative in approach. I recently had a case in which I needed an audio and video forensic expert. I found Ed. Ed is a genius and was absolutely amazing in front of the jury.”

– Attorney Nenye Uch