Forensic Entomology

Paper Summary:

Forensic entomology is a relatively new area of study when it comes to murder, but it can tell a great deal that is very helpful to homicide investigations and other areas of law and medicine. It is for this reason that the interest in forensic entomology has continued to grow, and the field appears to fascinate many people. This is especially true when they begin to realize how much insects can tell humans. For the purposes of this paper, the field of forensic entomology is discussed only as it deals with homicide and what the insects on a corpse can tell medical examiners and law enforcement about time and place of death. The dipteran life cycle is also discussed, as it plays an important role in many of these kinds of investigations and is quite often used by forensic entomologists that are seeking answers.

From the Paper:

"Many laypeople became interested in forensic entomology through movies such as "The Silence of the Lambs", because forensic entomologists figured somewhat prominently in the movie. These forensic entomologists are now considered "cool" by many people who find the field gruesome and fascinating at the same time. This somewhat morbid fascination with death and what can be learned from a corpse has propelled forensic entomology, if not into the spotlight, than at least out on the edge of the stage. Forensic entomology may or may not be "cool", but it is a serious science and has much to tell individuals that are studying a corpse to determine when that person died and where. If foul play is thought to be involved, when the victim died and where can be pieces of evidence that would be considered very crucial in bringing the murderer to justice."

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