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Forensic parasitology: a new frontier in criminalistics
Mackenzie L Kwak1, James F Wallman2,3, Darren Yeo4
1Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
Forensic Sciences Research
|June 7, 2024
Summary
Forensic parasitology, the study of parasites in criminal investigations, is an overlooked field. This research explores its potential applications, from wildlife crime to human neglect, and proposes a roadmap for its development.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Forensic Science
- Criminal Justice
Background:
- Parasites are diverse and interact closely with humans and animals.
- Their potential as forensic indicators in criminal investigations remains largely unexplored.
- Forensic science has historically overlooked the utility of parasites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the utility of parasites as forensic indicators in criminal investigations.
- To foster the development of the field of forensic parasitology.
- To identify key areas where parasites can serve as forensic evidence.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis of parasite utility in forensic contexts.
- Identification of five key areas for forensic parasitology application.
- Development of a roadmap for advancing the field.
Main Results:
- Parasites can be valuable indicators in wildlife trafficking, biological attacks, sex crimes, criminal neglect cases, and tracking movement/travel.
- A four-step roadmap is proposed to enhance the use of parasites in criminal investigations.
Conclusions:
- Parasitic evidence offers unique insights for criminal investigations.
- Developing forensic parasitology can significantly enhance forensic science capabilities.
- Further research and training are needed to integrate parasites into standard forensic practices.
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