Experiences with a compound method for estimating the time since death. I. Rectal temperature nomogram for time since...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Thanatology
• Postmortem Interval Estimation

Background:

• Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Traditional methods for PMI estimation can be limited by environmental factors and time elapsed.
• A reliable and scene-applicable method for PMI estimation is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and applicability of a temperature-based nomogram method for estimating the time period since death.
• To assess the method's utility in supporting early criminal investigations.

Main Methods:

• The temperature-based nomogram method was employed as a primary component of a compound method.
• The method was applied at the scene of death in 72 consecutive cases.
• Forensic pathologists evaluated scene conditions and cooling factors relevant to the method.

Main Results:

• The method demonstrated high reliability, with no contradictions found in 60 cases when compared to police investigation timelines.
• The temperature-based nomogram method accurately estimated the time period since death.
• Early criminal investigations were effectively supported in 11 cases, even with extended postmortem intervals.

Conclusions:

• The temperature-based nomogram method is a reliable tool for estimating the time period since death at the scene.
• This method provides valuable support for criminal investigations, particularly in the early stages.
• The evaluation confirms the practical utility of this temperature-based approach in forensic pathology.