|
| Forensic Entomology Forensic entomology is not a new science but has recently been in higher demand in crime investigation due to awareness of its usefulness. In most cases in the UK forensic entomology is mostly employed to estimate the time of death of human remains, known as the post-mortm interval (PMI). The time of death estimate is made with examination of the scene, the body and the entomological evidence in conjuction with each other. The usefulness of forensic entomology in time of death estimation runs from approximately 72 hours to many years after death. Prior to 72 hours other forensic medicine/ pathology methods are more pertinent. However, specific cases may benefit form a forensic entomologist’s analysis of the scene and body since the absence of entomological evidence in the early stages of decomposition can be as interesting as when insects are found associated with a body after infestation has occurred. Due to the nature of forensic entomology, after longer periods have elapsed, the use of other forensic disciplines such as forensic anthropology and forensic botany may become more useful. This is a guide only since each case is individual, and the awareness and employment of the best methods are important to ensure that as much information be gained about the circumstances of the death and crime committed. The use of one forensic discipline does not discount the use of others in the investigation of a crime; often the use of multiple disciplines can contribute to the overall picture of a crime event. Determination of the PMI is not the only use of forensic entomology, it can be also used to show body movement after death, body placement, drug use prior to death (entomotoxicology), amongst others. With extensive worldwide experience in dealing with forensic entomology cases and research, Defence Forensics UK is able to provide expert forensic entomology consultation, with review of reports, PMI estimations and conclusions based upon entomological evidence. Forensic entomology is very complex and does require a trained specialist to conduct forensic work suitable for the courts of law. Conclusions obtained from insect evidence can be very subjective and should often involve a broader appreciation of other forensic disciplines, which is not always the case. |
|
Defence Forensics UK London House
Hamilton Crescent
Hammersmith
W6 8FT |