the application of forensic anthropology to the recovery & identification of human remains dr....
TRANSCRIPT
The Application of Forensic
Anthropology to the Recovery &
Identification of Human Remains
Dr. Tosha DuprasNational Center for Forensic Science
University of Central Florida
NATIONAL CENTER FOR FORENSIC SCIENCE
Forensic Anthropology
Forensic anthropology is the application of the science of physical
anthropology to the legal process
Forensic Anthropologists frequently work with:
- Forensic pathologists- Forensic dentists- Homicide investigators
What do Forensic Anthropologists do?
• Scene Search
• Excavation and Recovery
• Questions of Identification
• Cause, Manner & Mode of Death
• Time Since Death
Medical Examiner Coroner’s Office
Forensic Anthropologist
Police
Human? Archaeological? Recent?
State Archaeologist
Foul Play?
Time Since Death
Identification
SCENE SEARCH
How do we find buried remains?
Excavation & Recovery
CASE TIME LINE
• Early May, 1987 – Meyers rapes woman who escapes
• May 25th, 1987 – Kathy Engels goes missing• June 1987 – Meyers convicted of rape, sentenced
to 3 years• 1991 – Meyers released from prison• 1994 – Meyers convicted of killing Engels,
receives Death Penalty• 2001 – Meyers strikes deal with Prosecutors
Identification: Biological Profile
What information can a Forensic
Anthropologist provide?
SexAge at Death
RaceStature
Pathology/Trauma
Children vs Adults
• Aging infants and children– Related to growth
• Aging Adults– Related to
degeneration
Adult Age at Death
• Degenerative changes– Pubic Symphysis– Auricular Surface
PUBIC SYMPHYSIS
Auricular Surface
