The concept of forensic taphonomy: understanding the postmortem processes of dead remains

Abstract

Taphonomy is the discipline that investigates and interprets all activities that occur to remains after death. Postmortem Interval (PMI) is a critical concept in forensic science and refers to the time elapsed between the death of an individual and the discovery and examination of their remains. Estimating the PMI is often one of the primary objectives in forensic investigations, as it can provide crucial information to investigators, such as the approximate time of death, which is vital in narrowing down potential suspects and reconstructing the events leading to the demise of an individual. By gaining insights into the PMI and the conditions surrounding a body after death, forensic taphonomy can aid law enforcement in solving crime by providing a scientific foundation for estimating when a crime might have occurred. The concept of forensic taphonomy is a dynamic and indispensable aspect of forensic science. It sheds light on the intricate processes that occur after death and helps solve mysteries, bring perpetrators to justice, and offer solace to those affected by the tragedy.  As forensic science continues to evolve, so does our understanding of taphonomy, making it an ever-relevant field in the realm of criminal investigations and human identification. The accuracy and dependability of PMI estimates have been substantially improved globally by improvements in methodologies and the incorporation of advanced Systems. However, difficulties still exist, such as differences in insect behavior across geographical regions and the requirement for thorough databases for documented data. Forensic taphonomy is a critical aspect of modern forensic science and as such requires development and research in developing countries hence the purpose of this study.