A BASIC algorithm for calculating the postmortem interval from arthropod successional data

Area of Science:

• Forensic Entomology
• Computational Biology
• Digital Forensics

Background:

• Determining the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Traditional methods for PMI estimation can be imprecise.
• Insect succession patterns on remains offer a potentially reliable indicator of time since death.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a computer algorithm for calculating the postmortem interval (PMI) based on arthropod successional data.
• To provide a tool for forensic entomologists to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of PMI determination.
• To facilitate the wider adoption of entomology-assisted PMI estimation in law enforcement and medical examiner offices.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a computer algorithm in the BASIC language.
• Inputting identified arthropod taxa from human remains and geographical carrion-associated arthropod data.
• Utilizing machine-readable data on known successional patterns of carrion-associated arthropods.

Main Results:

• The algorithm rapidly compares input lists to calculate upper and lower estimates of the PMI.
• It identifies definitive taxa associated with these time limits.
• The program checks for consistency of remaining taxa's successional patterns and provides alternative outputs for discrepancies.

Conclusions:

• The developed algorithm offers a systematic and potentially more accurate method for PMI estimation using forensic entomology.
• It standardizes the analysis of insect succession data, improving reliability.
• The program's compatibility with IBM PCs can broaden its application in forensic settings.