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Exploring the use of selfies in human identification
Dharshini Naidu1, Ademir Franco1, Scheila Mânica1
1Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom.
Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
|December 5, 2021
Summary
Selfies can supplement ante-mortem dental evidence for human identification. Forensic odontologists recognize their potential, suggesting structured analysis methods for incorporating these images into identification guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Odontology
- Human Identification
- Digital Imaging Analysis
Background:
- Forensic odontologists typically compare post-mortem evidence with ante-mortem data for human identification.
- Dental charts and radiographs are standard ante-mortem evidence, while photographs, including selfies, are often overlooked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential contribution of selfies to human identification.
- To propose a structured methodology for assessing selfie images in forensic odontology.
Main Methods:
- An electronic survey was distributed to forensic odontologists and related professionals.
- The survey explored opinions on using photographs and selfies in human identification.
- Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Main Results:
- A 40.8% response rate was achieved from 200 professionals surveyed.
- 73.2% of respondents agreed that selfies could serve as primary or supplementary evidence in dental identification.
- Experienced professionals analyzed dental anatomy, restorations, craniofacial landmarks, and soft tissues from selfie images.
Conclusions:
- Selfies can be valuable supplementary ante-mortem dental evidence.
- A standardized visual analysis protocol for selfies could be integrated into global forensic odontology guidelines.
- Further research is recommended to advance the use of selfie technology in forensic identification.
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