Detecting submerged objects: the application of side scan sonar to forensic contexts.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Geophysical Sciences
• Marine Search and Recovery

Background:

• Traditional water search methods (dive teams, ROVs, scent dogs) face challenges in locating submerged objects.
• Law enforcement is increasingly adopting geophysical technologies to augment traditional search techniques.
• Aquatic vegetation and irregular terrain can impede the effectiveness of certain search methods like side scan sonar.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss methodologies of various search methods for submerged objects.
• To explore the integration of geophysical technologies with traditional methods for comprehensive water searches.
• To present case studies demonstrating successful application of integrated search strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of traditional water search techniques (dive teams, ROVs, scent dogs).
• Integration and application of geophysical technologies, including side scan sonar and ground penetrating radar (GPR).
• Analysis of search method effectiveness based on underwater terrain and environmental conditions.

Main Results:

• Integrating geophysical technologies with traditional methods decreases search time and increases the searched area.
• Side scan sonar may be ineffective in environments with dense aquatic vegetation or uneven bottom terrain.
• Successful recovery of submerged human bodies was achieved by integrating side scan sonar with dive teams in case studies.

Conclusions:

• The highest success rate in submerged object searches is achieved by integrating multiple search methods, including various geophysical technologies.
• A comprehensive protocol for water searches should be tailored to specific underwater terrain and incorporate diverse search strategies.
• Geophysical technologies, when combined with divers, significantly enhance the effectiveness of locating submerged objects.