Entomology and the Law Flies as Forensic Indicators [Paperback]

Thorough analysis of the scientific and legal issues involved in using insects to help solve crimes.Entomology and the Law is about the use of insects to solve crimes and other legal mysteries. As with any new science, its flaws and shortcomings are sometimes minimised or ignored by enthusiastic practitioners. Providing a detailed 'roadmap' that can be followed from crime scene to courtroom, and covering both the relevant science and the law of scientific evidence as it pertains to forensic entomology, this book provides a vital and unique resource for forensic entomologists, law enforcement personnel and lawyers preparing for trial.Entomology and the Law is about the use of insects to solve crimes and other legal mysteries. As with any new science, its flaws and shortcomings are sometimes minimised or ignored by enthusiastic practitioners. Providing a detailed 'roadmap' that can be followed from crime scene to courtroom, and covering both the relevant science and the law of scientific evidence as it pertains to forensic entomology, this book provides a vital and unique resource for forensic entomologists, law enforcement personnel and lawyers preparing for trial.Insect-related evidence is one of the most powerful, least understood examples of modern forensic science. Entomology and the Law is a detailed roadmap from crime scene to courtroom--for entomologists, law enforcement personnel and lawyers preparing for trial. Part I focuses on carrion flies as forensic indicators, exploring relevant biology clearly and concisely illustrated by real-life cases. Part II is a thorough examination of the law of scientific evidence worldwide, complete with caselaw, applicable code provisions, and legal issues relevant to the admissibility and use of forensic entomology in litigation.Glossary; Part I: Preface to Part I; 1. A history of flies; 2. Forensic biology of flies; 3. Estimating time of death; 4. Keys to the eggs, larvae, pupae and adults of some forensically important fll#(