[Forensic entomology exemplified by a homicide. A combined stain and postmortem time analysis].
The combined analysis of both ant and blow fly evidence recovered from a corpse, and from the boot of a suspect, suggested that an assumed scenario in a high profile murder case was likely to be true. The ants (Lasius fuliginous) were used as classical crime scene stains that linked the suspect to the scene. Blow fly maggots (Calliphora spec.) helped to determine the post mortem interval (PMI) with the calculated PMI overlapping with the assumed time of the killing. In the trial, the results of the medico-legal analysis of the insects was understood to be crucial scientific evidence, and the suspect was sentenced to 8 years in prison.
Benecke
M
M
Zoologischen Institut, Universität zu Köln. benecke@csi.com
Seifert
B
B
D000818:Animals; D001000:Ants; D001344:Autopsy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D004772:Entomology / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005260:Female; D006708:Homicide / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007814:Larva; D011180:Postmortem Changes