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Holistic Facial Composite Creation and Subsequent Video Line-up Eyewitness Identification Paradigm
Published on: December 24, 2015
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A "concrete" identification in a dismemberment case.
Tiffany Sheganoski1, Michael T Wiltsey2,3, Timothy Horne2
1Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|December 1, 2023
Summary
Forensic investigators rarely encounter concrete-encased homicide victims. This case highlights how meticulous excavation and fingerprint recovery from concrete molds aided in identifying a dismembered decedent.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Forensic Anthropology
Background:
- Homicide perpetrators may use concrete encasement to conceal victims, often combined with dismemberment.
- This concealment method presents significant challenges for victim identification in forensic investigations.
Observation:
- A case involving an unidentified 44-year-old male with postmortem dismemberment and concrete encasement was examined.
- Meticulous excavation preserved evidence, allowing for anatomical reconstruction and examination of dismemberment sites.
- Distinctive jewelry and tattoos were noted during the autopsy.
Findings:
- Fingerprints were successfully obtained from the concrete molds created by the encased remains.
- These recovered fingerprints were instrumental in the ultimate identification of the decedent.
Implications:
- The study demonstrates the utility of concrete molds for fingerprint recovery in challenging identification cases.
- Effective excavation and examination techniques are crucial for identifying victims concealed through concrete encasement and dismemberment.
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