Entomology

What is forensic entomology used for?

• To estimate the minimum time since death using insect activity on bodies as a timeline.  This may be important in cases involving murder, suicide, accident, or suspected neglect of persons in care.
• To help to differentiate insect feeding damage to bodies from trauma that may have occurred around the time of death.  For example, ant feeding patterns on skin may sometimes resemble acid burns.
• To help to determine whether bodies have been moved after death.  Some insects have very restricted geographic ranges, and can act as indicators if they are associated with a body that has been transported outside this range.
• To reconstruct events that occurred after death by examining insect infestation patterns on bodies.  For example, opinions may be provided on whether a body was buried soon after death, located indoors since death, or exposed to the elements.
• To assess parasite infestations in abuse and neglect cases.  Important factors may include the identity of the parasite, the size of the infestation and the appropriateness of any treatment given to the infested person.
• To identify venomous invertebrates implicated in human deaths

Other uses

Other uses of forensic entomology tend to relate more to civil than criminal matters.  These uses include:

• identification of pest insects infesting (or contaminating) food and stored products.
• identification of pest insects infesting structures such as houses.

Medico-legal uses

Forensic entomology is most widely used to address medico-legal problems.  However, many of the techniques used can also be applied in animal cruelty and poaching cases.

Forensic entomology at the VIFM

The entomology service not only provides expert analysis and opinions in VIFM cases where entomological issues are involved, but it also seeks to develop and advance the science of forensic entomology in Victoria through ongoing research and teaching.

Research

Research currently being undertaken includes a major three-year project on minimum death time estimation in Victoria (initiated in May 2002).  This project, which involves collaboration between entomologists, anthropologists, and pathologists, will greatly increase the accuracy of death time estimates in Victoria.  It is also anticipated that the results will help to resolve some national and international difficulties with estimating minimum death time.

Forensic Entomology Service

A commercial entomology consulting service is available from the VIFM.  Services offered are insect identification, and advice on the interpretation of insect evidence in legal cases.  For further information please email enq.entomology@vifm.org