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Insects
Special Issues
From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology
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From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology

A special issue of Insects (ISSN 2075-4450). This special issue belongs to the section "Role of Insects in Human Society".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2021) | Viewed by 74889

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Damien Charabidze

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
UMR 8025, Centre d′Histoire Judiciaire, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
Interests: forensic entomology; Calliphoridae; ethology; sociality; law history
Dr. Daniel Martín-Vega

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Departmento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Interests: forensic entomology; medical and veterinary entomology; insect development

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In 2001, Benecke concluded a review on the history of forensic entomology with these optimistic words: "basic research and advanced application of forensic entomology (…) has opened the way to routine casework" [1]. At the same time, the TV show Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) largely brought forensic entomology to light. However, the show also cruelly pointed out its limits: After explaining to his colleague how insects can help in determining the time of death, the team leader added "You've still got to convince a jury", to which the colleague promptly responded "On guns. It's got to be better than bugs. Less Latin" [2]. Indeed, several factors—including complexity, inherent limitations, and rapid evolution of scientific knowledge—explain the slow acceptance of insect-based evidence. In this context, this Special Issue will focus on the articulation between laboratory studies and casework, a major challenge for the future of forensic entomology.

[1] Benecke M. A brief history of forensic entomology. Forensic Sci. Int. 2001, 120, 2–14.
[2] Episode 1.10. Sex, Lies and Larvae.

Dr. Damien Charabidze
Dr. Daniel Martín-Vega
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Insects is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Published Papers (20 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review, Other

6 pages, 405 KiB  
Editorial
Looking Back to Move Forward: How Review Articles Could Boost Forensic Entomology
by Damien Charabidze and Daniel Martín-Vega
Insects 2021, 12(7), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12070648 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2804
Abstract
The Locard′s exchange principle (1930) holds that the perpetrator of a crime leaves traces behind that can later be sampled and used as forensic evidence [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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Research

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17 pages, 5121 KiB  
Article
DNA Barcoding Identifies Unknown Females and Larvae of Fannia R.-D. (Diptera: Fanniidae) from Carrion Succession Experiment and Case Report
by Andrzej Grzywacz, Mateusz Jarmusz, Kinga Walczak, Rafał Skowronek, Nikolas P. Johnston and Krzysztof Szpila
Insects 2021, 12(5), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12050381 - 23 Apr 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3003
Abstract
Application of available keys to European Fanniidae did not facilitate unequivocal species identification for third instar larvae and females of Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 collected during a study of arthropod succession on pig carrion. To link these samples to known species, we took the [...] Read more.
Application of available keys to European Fanniidae did not facilitate unequivocal species identification for third instar larvae and females of Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 collected during a study of arthropod succession on pig carrion. To link these samples to known species, we took the advantage of molecular identification methods and compared newly obtained cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) barcode sequences against sequences deposited in reference databases. As an outcome of the results obtained, we describe for the first time a third instar larva of Fannia nigra Malloch, 1910 and Fannia pallitibia (Rondani, 1866) and a female of Fannia collini d’Assis-Fonseca, 1966. We provide combinations of characters allowing for discrimination of described insects from other Fanniidae. We provide an update for the key by Rozkošný et al. 1997, which allows differentiation between females of F. collini and other species of Fanniidae. Additionally, we provide a case of a human cadaver discovered in Southern Poland and insect fauna associated with it as the first report of F. nigra larvae developing on a human body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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11 pages, 2760 KiB  
Article
The Growth Model of Forensically Important Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in South Korea
by Sang Eon Shin, Ji Hye Park, Su Jin Jeong and Seong Hwan Park
Insects 2021, 12(4), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040323 - 6 Apr 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2450
Abstract
Development of forensically important Lucilia sericata (Meigen) was analyzed in South Korea. Rearing was replicated five times at seven constant temperatures between 20–35 °C to elucidate changes in accumulated degree hours, based on developmental stage and body length, and 2673 individuals were statistically [...] Read more.
Development of forensically important Lucilia sericata (Meigen) was analyzed in South Korea. Rearing was replicated five times at seven constant temperatures between 20–35 °C to elucidate changes in accumulated degree hours, based on developmental stage and body length, and 2673 individuals were statistically analyzed. The results indicated that the optimum temperature, the base temperature, and the overall thermal constant were 22.31 °C (±1.21 °C, 95% CI), 9.07 °C, and 232.81 ± 23 (mean ± SD) accumulated degree days, respectively. In the minimum ADH models of each development stage, nonlinear regression graphs were parallel at the immature stages. Based on the scatter plot (n = 973) of immature stages using ADH values and body length, the logarithmic model using Log10ADH as the dependent variable was identified as the best fitting regression model. Additionally, the adjusted R2 value and mean square of error were 0.911 and 0.007, respectively. This is the first forensically focused study on the development of L.sericata for the estimation of minimum postmortem interval in South Korea. In future studies, we intend to study the development of other necrophagous fly species and to identify parameters for the determination of age at post-feeding and pupal stages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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12 pages, 1849 KiB  
Article
Investigations on Arthropods Associated with Decay Stages of Buried Animals in Italy
by Teresa Bonacci, Federica Mendicino, Domenico Bonelli, Francesco Carlomagno, Giuseppe Curia, Chiara Scapoli and Marco Pezzi
Insects 2021, 12(4), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040311 - 1 Apr 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2825
Abstract
Burial could be used by criminals to conceal the bodies of victims, interfering with the succession of sarcosaprophagous fauna and with the evaluation of post-mortem interval. In Italy, no experimental investigation on arthropods associated with buried remains has been conducted to date. A [...] Read more.
Burial could be used by criminals to conceal the bodies of victims, interfering with the succession of sarcosaprophagous fauna and with the evaluation of post-mortem interval. In Italy, no experimental investigation on arthropods associated with buried remains has been conducted to date. A first experimental study on arthropods associated with buried carcasses was carried out in a rural area of Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Southern Italy, from November 2017 to May 2018. Six pig carcasses (Susscrofa Linnaeus) were used, five of which were buried in 60-cm deep pits, leaving about 25-cm of soil above each carcass, and one was left above ground. One of the buried carcasses was periodically exhumed to evaluate the effects of disturbance on decay processes and on arthropod fauna. The other four carcasses were exhumed only once, respectively after 43, 82, 133, and 171 days. As expected, the decay rate was different among carcasses. Differences in taxa and colonization of arthropod fauna were also detected in the above ground and periodically exhumed carcasses. In carcasses exhumed only once, no arthropod colonization was detected. The results showed that a burial at about 25 cm depth could be sufficient to prevent colonization by sarcosaprophagous taxa and these data could be relevant in forensic cases involving buried corpses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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8 pages, 2319 KiB  
Communication
New Species of Soldier Fly—Sargus bipunctatus (Scopoli, 1763) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), Recorded from a Human Corpse in Europe—A Case Report
by Marek Michalski, Piotr Gadawski, Joanna Klemm and Krzysztof Szpila
Insects 2021, 12(4), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040302 - 30 Mar 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2952
Abstract
The only European Stratiomyidae species known for feeding on human corpses was the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus, 1758). Analysis of fauna found on a human corpse, discovered in central Poland, revealed the presence of feeding larvae of another species from this [...] Read more.
The only European Stratiomyidae species known for feeding on human corpses was the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus, 1758). Analysis of fauna found on a human corpse, discovered in central Poland, revealed the presence of feeding larvae of another species from this family: the twin-spot centurion fly Sargus bipunctatus (Scopoli, 1763). The investigated corpse was in a stage of advanced decomposition. The larvae were mainly observed in the adipocere formed on the back and lower limbs of the corpse, and in the mixture of litter and lumps of adipocere located under the corpse. Adult specimens and larvae were identified based on morphological characters, and final identification was confirmed using DNA barcoding. Implementing a combination of morphological and molecular methods provided a reliable way for distinguishing the larvae of S. bipunctatus and H. illucens. The potential of S. bipunctatus for practical applications in forensic entomology is currently difficult to assess. Wide and reliable use of S. bipunctatus in the practice of forensic entomology requires further studies of the bionomy of this fly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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15 pages, 1157 KiB  
Article
Impact of Comingled Heterospecific Assemblages on Developmentally Based Estimates of the Post-Mortem Interval—A Study with Lucilia sericata (Meigen), Phormia regina (Meigen) and Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
by Krystal R. Hans and Sherah L. Vanlaerhoven
Insects 2021, 12(4), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040280 - 25 Mar 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2907
Abstract
Estimates of the minimum post-mortem interval (mPMI) using the development rate of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are common in modern forensic entomology casework. These estimates are based on single species developing in the absence of heterospecific interactions. Yet, in real-world situations, it is [...] Read more.
Estimates of the minimum post-mortem interval (mPMI) using the development rate of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are common in modern forensic entomology casework. These estimates are based on single species developing in the absence of heterospecific interactions. Yet, in real-world situations, it is not uncommon to have 2 or more blow fly species developing on a body. Species interactions have the potential to change the acceptance of resources as suitable for oviposition, the timing of oviposition, growth rate, size and development time of immature stages, as well as impacting the survival of immature stages to reach adult. This study measured larval development and growth rate of the blow flies Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826), Phormia regina (Meigen, 1826) and Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Calliphoridae) over five constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 °C), in the presence of conspecifics or two-species heterospecific assemblages. Temperature and species treatment interacted such that L. sericata larvae gained mass more rapidly when in the presence of P. regina at 20 and 30 °C, however only developed faster at first instar. At later stages, the presence of P. regina slowed development of L. sericata immatures. Development time of C. vicina immatures was not affected by the presence of P. regina, however larvae gained mass more slowly. Development time of P. regina immatures was faster in the presence of either L. sericata or C. vicina until third instar, at which point, the presence of L. sericata was neutral whereas C. vicina negatively impacted development time. Phormia regina larvae gained mass more rapidly in the presence of L. sericata at 20 °C but were negatively impacted at 25 °C by the presence of either L. sericata or C. vicina. The results of this study indicate that metrics such as development time or larval mass used for estimating mPMI with blow flies are impacted by the presence of comingled heterospecific blow fly assemblages. As the effects of heterospecific assemblages are not uniformly positive or negative between stages, temperatures or species combinations, more research into these effects is vital. Until then, caution should be used when estimating mPMI in cases with multiple blow fly species interacting on a body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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11 pages, 262 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Accumulated Degree-Days and Entomological Approaches in Post Mortem Interval Estimation
by Lorenzo Franceschetti, Jennifer Pradelli, Fabiola Tuccia, Giorgia Giordani, Cristina Cattaneo and Stefano Vanin
Insects 2021, 12(3), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12030264 - 21 Mar 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4007
Abstract
Establishing the post mortem interval (PMI) is a key component of every medicolegal death investigation. Several methods based on different approaches have been suggested to perform this estimation. Among them, two methods based their evaluation on the effect of the temperature and time [...] Read more.
Establishing the post mortem interval (PMI) is a key component of every medicolegal death investigation. Several methods based on different approaches have been suggested to perform this estimation. Among them, two methods based their evaluation on the effect of the temperature and time on the considered parameters: total body score (TBS)/accumulated degree-days (ADDs) and insect development. In this work, the two methods were compared using the results of minPMI and PMI estimates of 30 forensic cases occurring in northern Italy. Species in the family Calliphoridae (Lucilia sericata, Calliphora vomitoria and Chrysomya albiceps) were considered in the analyses. The results highlighted the limits of the TBS/ADD method and the importance of the entomological approach, keeping in mind that the minPMI is evaluated. Due to the fact that the majority of the cases occurred in indoor conditions, further research must also be conducted on the different taxa to verify the possibility of increasing the accuracy of the minPIM estimation based on the entomological approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
13 pages, 1351 KiB  
Article
Small Bait Traps May Not Accurately Reflect the Composition of Necrophagous Diptera Associated to Remains
by Kathleen LeBlanc, Denis R. Boudreau and Gaétan Moreau
Insects 2021, 12(3), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12030261 - 20 Mar 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2613
Abstract
Small bait traps are beginning to emerge in forensic entomology as a new approach to sample early-colonizing necrophagous Diptera species while reducing the investment in time and energy in obtaining information. To test the hypothesis conveyed by the literature that these traps can [...] Read more.
Small bait traps are beginning to emerge in forensic entomology as a new approach to sample early-colonizing necrophagous Diptera species while reducing the investment in time and energy in obtaining information. To test the hypothesis conveyed by the literature that these traps can be a substitute for whole carcasses, we simultaneously documented the Diptera assemblages visiting and colonizing domestic pig carcasses and small traps baited with pork liver. Results indicated that Diptera species occurrence and assemblage composition in the small bait traps and on the carcasses differed, while they were similar when comparing only the pig carcasses. These results are in agreement with the literature that examined insect colonization of other decaying substrates. Although small bait traps can be useful tools to document the communities of necrophagous Diptera in a given area, we stress that caution must be exercised when extending the data obtained by these traps to courtroom proceedings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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15 pages, 1492 KiB  
Article
To Be There or Not to Be There, That Is the Question—On the Problem of Delayed Sampling of Entomological Evidence
by Lena Lutz, Marcel A. Verhoff and Jens Amendt
Insects 2021, 12(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12020148 - 9 Feb 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2154
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to analyze two major pitfalls in forensic entomological casework: delayed evidence sampling and the effect of low-temperature storage of the body. For this purpose, temperature profiles of heavily infested corpses during cooling and cases in which [...] Read more.
The aim of the current study was to analyze two major pitfalls in forensic entomological casework: delayed evidence sampling and the effect of low-temperature storage of the body. For this purpose, temperature profiles of heavily infested corpses during cooling and cases in which insect evidence was collected both at the scene and during autopsy were evaluated with regard to species composition and development stages found. The results show that the temperature in the body bags remained at higher average temperatures up to 10 °C relative to the mortuary cooler, therefore, sufficient for larval development, with significant differences in temperature between larval aggregations on one and the same body. In addition, we found large differences both in species number, species composition, and the developmental stages found at the scene and during the autopsy. These data and observations underscore the importance of sampling evidence at the scene and recording temperatures throughout the cooling period of a body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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9 pages, 1170 KiB  
Article
Puparia Cleaning Techniques for Forensic and Archaeo-Funerary Studies
by Jennifer Pradelli, Fabiola Tuccia, Giorgia Giordani and Stefano Vanin
Insects 2021, 12(2), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12020104 - 26 Jan 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2712
Abstract
Diptera puparia may represent both in forensic and archaeo-funerary contexts the majority of the entomological evidence useful to reconstruct the peri and post-mortem events. Puparia identification is quite difficult due to the lack of identification keys and descriptions. In addition, external substances accumulated [...] Read more.
Diptera puparia may represent both in forensic and archaeo-funerary contexts the majority of the entomological evidence useful to reconstruct the peri and post-mortem events. Puparia identification is quite difficult due to the lack of identification keys and descriptions. In addition, external substances accumulated during the puparia permanence in the environment make the visualization of the few diagnostic characters difficult, resulting in a wrong identification. Six different techniques based on physical and chemical treatments have been tested for the removal of external substances from puparia to make identification at species level feasible. Furthermore, the effects of these methods on successful molecular analyses have also been tested as molecular identification is becoming an important tool to complement morphological identifications. The results of this study indicate that cleaning via warm water/soap, the sonication and treatment with a sodium hydroxide solution are the best methods to achieve a good quality of the samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research, Other

9 pages, 1576 KiB  
Review
Insect Decline—A Forensic Issue?
by Jens Amendt
Insects 2021, 12(4), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040324 - 6 Apr 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6375
Abstract
Recent reports have shown a dramatic loss in insect species and biomass. Since forensic entomology relies on the presence of insects, the question is whether this decline effects the discipline. The present review confirms that numerous studies document insect population declines or even [...] Read more.
Recent reports have shown a dramatic loss in insect species and biomass. Since forensic entomology relies on the presence of insects, the question is whether this decline effects the discipline. The present review confirms that numerous studies document insect population declines or even extinction, despite the fact that the rates of decline and the methods used to demonstrate it are still much debated. However, with regard to a decline in necrophagous insects, there is little or only anecdotal data available. A hypothetical decrease in species diversity and population density in necrophagous insects could lead to a delayed colonization of dead bodies and a modified succession pattern due to the disappearance or new occurrence of species or their altered seasonality. Climate change as one of the drivers of insect decline will probably also have an impact on necrophagous insects and forensic entomology, leading to reduced flight and oviposition activity, modified growth rates and, therefore, an over- or underestimation of a minimum postmortem interval. Global warming with increased temperature and extreme weather requires a better understanding about necrophagous insect responses to environmental variations. Here, transgeneration effects in particular should be analysed in greater depth as this will help to understand rapid adaptation and plasticity in insects of forensic importance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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21 pages, 1097 KiB  
Review
Post-Mortem Interval Estimation Based on Insect Evidence: Current Challenges
by Szymon Matuszewski
Insects 2021, 12(4), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040314 - 1 Apr 2021
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 8885
Abstract
During death investigations insects are used mostly to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI). These estimates are only as good as they are close to the true PMI. Therefore, the major challenge for forensic entomology is to reduce the estimation inaccuracy. Here, I review [...] Read more.
During death investigations insects are used mostly to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI). These estimates are only as good as they are close to the true PMI. Therefore, the major challenge for forensic entomology is to reduce the estimation inaccuracy. Here, I review literature in this field to identify research areas that may contribute to the increase in the accuracy of PMI estimation. I conclude that research on the development and succession of carrion insects, thermogenesis in aggregations of their larvae and error rates of the PMI estimation protocols should be prioritized. Challenges of educational and promotional nature are discussed as well, particularly in relation to the collection of insect evidence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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11 pages, 255 KiB  
Review
The Forensic Entomology Case Report—A Global Perspective
by Zanthé Kotzé, Sylvain Aimar, Jens Amendt, Gail S. Anderson, Luc Bourguignon, Martin J.R. Hall and Jeffery K. Tomberlin
Insects 2021, 12(4), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040283 - 25 Mar 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5496
Abstract
Forensic practitioners analyzing entomological evidence are faced with numerous challenges when presenting their findings to law practitioners, particularly in terms of terminology used to describe insect age, what this means for colonization time of remains, and the limitations to estimates made. Due to [...] Read more.
Forensic practitioners analyzing entomological evidence are faced with numerous challenges when presenting their findings to law practitioners, particularly in terms of terminology used to describe insect age, what this means for colonization time of remains, and the limitations to estimates made. Due to varying legal requirements in different countries, there is no standard format for the entomological case report prepared, nor any guidelines as to the sections that are required, optional or unnecessary in a case report. The authors herein propose sections that should be considered when drafting an entomological case report. The criteria under which entomological evidence is analyzed are discussed, as well as the limitations for each criterion. The concept of a global, standardized entomological case report is impossible to achieve due to national legislative differences, but the authors here propose a basic template which can be adapted and changed according to the needs of the practitioner. Furthermore, while the discussion is fairly detailed, capturing all differences between nations could not be accomplished, and those initiating casework for the first time are encouraged to engage other practicing forensic entomologists or professional associations within their own nation or region, to ensure a complete report is generated that meets lab or national requirements, prior to generating a finalized report. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
11 pages, 263 KiB  
Review
The Pitfalls in the Path of Probabilistic Inference in Forensic Entomology: A Review
by Gaétan Moreau
Insects 2021, 12(3), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12030240 - 12 Mar 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3237
Abstract
To bridge the gap between experimentation and the court of law, studies in forensic entomology and other forensic sciences have to comply with a set of experimental rules to generate probabilistic inference of quality. These rules are illustrated with successional studies of insects [...] Read more.
To bridge the gap between experimentation and the court of law, studies in forensic entomology and other forensic sciences have to comply with a set of experimental rules to generate probabilistic inference of quality. These rules are illustrated with successional studies of insects on a decomposing substrate as the main example. The approaches that have been used in the scientific literature to solve the issues associated with successional data are then reviewed. Lastly, some advice to scientific editors, reviewers and academic supervisors is provided to prevent the publication and eventual use in court of forensic studies using poor research methods and abusing statistical procedures Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
16 pages, 352 KiB  
Review
Forensic Entomology in China and Its Challenges
by Yu Wang, Yinghui Wang, Man Wang, Wang Xu, Yanan Zhang and Jiangfeng Wang
Insects 2021, 12(3), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12030230 - 8 Mar 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3867
Abstract
While the earliest record of forensic entomology originated in China, related research did not start in China until the 1990s. In this paper, we review the recent research progress on the species identification, temperature-dependent development, faunal succession, and entomological toxicology of sarcosaprophagous insects [...] Read more.
While the earliest record of forensic entomology originated in China, related research did not start in China until the 1990s. In this paper, we review the recent research progress on the species identification, temperature-dependent development, faunal succession, and entomological toxicology of sarcosaprophagous insects as well as common applications of forensic entomology in China. Furthermore, the difficulties and challenges forensic entomologists face in China are analyzed and possible countermeasures are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
13 pages, 1152 KiB  
Review
The Relationship between Research and Casework in Forensic Entomology
by Martin J. R. Hall
Insects 2021, 12(2), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12020174 - 17 Feb 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5940
Abstract
Research is a vital component of all forensic sciences and is often stimulated by casework, which identifies gaps in our knowledge. In such a niche area of forensic science as entomology there should be a close and mutually beneficial relationship between research and [...] Read more.
Research is a vital component of all forensic sciences and is often stimulated by casework, which identifies gaps in our knowledge. In such a niche area of forensic science as entomology there should be a close and mutually beneficial relationship between research and casework: to some extent there is a continuum between the two and many forensic entomologists are involved in both to a greater or lesser degree. However, research and casework involve quite differing challenges, from the replicated, highly controlled, sometimes esoteric aspects of research to the very individual, sometimes chaotic and disruptive, but highly applied aspects of casework. Ideally casework will include the full involvement of a forensic entomologist, who will collect the insect and climate evidence at the scene and produce a robust expert witness statement based on a full analysis of this data. Unfortunately, it can also include situations where samples, if collected at all, are poorly preserved, not representative of the full cadaver fauna available and presented to the entomologist months or years after the event, without local temperature data. While research is recognised through publications and their citation indices, casework and its associated expert witness statements often receive no credit in an academic workplace, although they do have a positive societal impact and many other benefits of teaching and public engagement value. This manuscript examines the relationship between research and casework from a UK perspective, to raise awareness of the need to create an environment that values the contribution of both, for future generations to flourish in both areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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Other

7 pages, 1927 KiB  
Case Report
Unusual Application of Insect-Related Evidence in Two European Unsolved Murders
by Francesco Introna, Cristina Cattaneo, Debora Mazzarelli, Francesco De Micco and Carlo Pietro Campobasso
Insects 2021, 12(5), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12050444 - 13 May 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2634
Abstract
Insect-related evidence must be considered of probative value just as bloodstains, fingerprints, fibers, or any other materials. Such evidence if properly collected and analyzed can also provide useful details in the reopening of old unsolved murders, also called “cold cases”. This paper presents [...] Read more.
Insect-related evidence must be considered of probative value just as bloodstains, fingerprints, fibers, or any other materials. Such evidence if properly collected and analyzed can also provide useful details in the reopening of old unsolved murders, also called “cold cases”. This paper presents the case of two murders that occurred in two different European countries and remained unsolved for years. The remains of a girl found in Italy 17 years after her disappearance helped to solve a murder that occurred in Britain 8 years prior. The cases were unexpectedly linked together because of the similarities in the ritualistic placing of strands of hair and connections with the suspect. The trace evidence relating to insects and hairs played a relevant role in the conviction of the perpetrator. In Italy, the defense raised the doubt that the strands of hair found nearby the skeletal remains could be the result of insect feeding activity and not the result of a cut by sharp objects. Therefore, it was fundamental to distinguish between sharp force lesions and insect feeding activity on hair. This unusual application of insect-related evidence clearly emphasizes the importance of an appropriate professional collection and analysis of any physical evidence that could be of robust probative value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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12 pages, 1342 KiB  
Case Report
Entomological Contributions to the Legal System in Southeastern Spain
by María-Isabel Arnaldos and María-Dolores García
Insects 2021, 12(5), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12050429 - 10 May 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2594
Abstract
The aim of this work is to present a number of forensic cases that took place in Southeastern Spain (Murcia province) in which the entomological evidence aided to fully solve the issues raised during the legal enquiry, enhancing the close interrelationships between experimental [...] Read more.
The aim of this work is to present a number of forensic cases that took place in Southeastern Spain (Murcia province) in which the entomological evidence aided to fully solve the issues raised during the legal enquiry, enhancing the close interrelationships between experimental studies performed and actual forensic cases assessed. In all cases, the expert report was requested by the police agents or the medical examiners, the latter attempting to make stronger their own conclusions. The assessment of all cases was possible by comparing the evidence and circumstances of each one with the experimental data previously obtained in our laboratory concerning aspects such as faunistic, ecological, morphological, etc., and by considering data from other researchers. In all cases, the evidence could be addressed, although in some cases, it had not been properly collected or processed. Thus, the utility of the experimental studies in forensic practice, even when being considered merely biological, and without immediate practical application, can be demonstrated as well as the need for providing specialized instruction on Forensic Entomology procedures to the different agents involved in forensic investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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9 pages, 848 KiB  
Technical Note
Technical Note: Effects of Makeshift Storage in Different Liquors on Larvae of the Blowflies Calliphora vicina and Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
by Senta Niederegger
Insects 2021, 12(4), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040312 - 1 Apr 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2602
Abstract
Unexpected findings of forensically important insects might prompt makeshift storage in alternative liquids if the proper equipment is lacking. The assessment of whether such evidence can still be used and correctly interpreted can be difficult. In this study, the effects of using alcoholic [...] Read more.
Unexpected findings of forensically important insects might prompt makeshift storage in alternative liquids if the proper equipment is lacking. The assessment of whether such evidence can still be used and correctly interpreted can be difficult. In this study, the effects of using alcoholic beverages as storing agents for post-feeding larvae of Calliphora vicina and Lucilia sericata were analyzed. Larvae were killed with boiling water (HWK) or placed alive into four alcoholic liquids: two spirits, vodka and brandy, and two liquors, Jägermeister and peppermint schnapps. Storage effects were documented after one day, nine days, and one month and compared to larvae treated according to guidelines for forensic entomology. Results show that the method of killing larvae is more important than the storing medium. Storage of HWK larvae in high-alcohol/low-sugar spirits had almost negligible effects on both species, while all fresh larvae shrank significantly. High sugar contents of the beverages might additionally lead to shrinkage of larvae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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5 pages, 1117 KiB  
Case Report
Flies Do Not Jump to Conclusions: Estimation of the Minimum Post-Mortem Interval for a Partly Skeletonized Body Based on Larvae of Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
by Senta Niederegger and Gita Mall
Insects 2021, 12(4), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects12040294 - 28 Mar 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2531
Abstract
Skeletonization is often perceived as an indicator of long post-mortem intervals. The finding of feeding larvae of first colonizers, on the other hand, indicates days. We present a case in which both findings were present. Larvae of Phormia regina, aged 9 days, [...] Read more.
Skeletonization is often perceived as an indicator of long post-mortem intervals. The finding of feeding larvae of first colonizers, on the other hand, indicates days. We present a case in which both findings were present. Larvae of Phormia regina, aged 9 days, and skeletonization of the head and part of the thorax were both found on an unidentified female body. Identification of dentures eventually led to resolution of the case and a confession, which settled the seeming contradiction in favor of forensic entomology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Laboratory Studies to Court Evidence: Challenges in Forensic Entomology)
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