Threat Management

Facial recognition software helps FBI snag fugitive 15 years later

A fugitive on the run for nearly a decade and a half was finally captured in Nepal after new facial recognition software revealed his true identity, according to a Tuesday FBI release.

Neil Stammer was arrested in New Mexico in 1999 on multiple state charges such as child sex abuse and kidnapping, but after being released on bond, he never showed up to his arraignment and soon became an FBI fugitive, according to the release.

This year, a new wanted poster for Stammer was issued. Shortly after, a special agent with the Diplomatic Security Service began testing new facial recognition software designed to identify passport fraud. Using it against FBI wanted posters, Stammer's face matched a photo used in a passport for a man named Kevin Hodges.

The FBI was notified and Stammer was soon captured in Nepal.

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