Temperature based forensic death time estimation: The standard model in experimental test.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Post-mortem interval determination

Background:

• Accurate time since death estimation is crucial for homicide investigations.
• Henßge's nomogram method has been the standard for early post-mortem temperature-based death time determination for 30 years.
• Erroneous estimates can lead to wrongful convictions or acquittals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To independently investigate the validity of Henßge's nomogram method for time since death estimates.
• To assess the reliability of the method's 95%-confidence intervals.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of nomogram method estimates with post-mortem cooling curves.
• Data collected from 84 individuals with known times of death under controlled conditions.

Main Results:

• The validity of the nomogram method appears problematic based on experimental findings.
• Systematic overestimation of the post-mortem interval was observed in bodies with high mass and large surface area.
• 95%-confidence interval limits require careful interpretation.

Conclusions:

• Death time estimates derived from the nomogram method should be interpreted cautiously.
• The method's confidence intervals should be used restrictively as court evidence.
• Forensic investigations must account for potential overestimation in specific body types.