ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 January 1980
Page Count: 14

Individuation in Forensic Science Study: Decapitation
Gordon, CC
Associate professor and graduate student, Northwestern University, Ill

Buikstra, JE
Associate professor and graduate student, Northwestern University, Ill

(Received 14 April 1979; accepted 28 July 1979)

Abstract

In this study we present a technique that may be useful in the individuation of remains separated through the cervical region. Using a series of measurements from young female skeletons in the Terry Collection, we have developed a model for testing congruence between adjacent elements. Emphasis has been placed on identifying those measurements most likely to minimize underestimating the true number of remains present. The use of the technique has been demonstrated in two (retrospective) forensic science examples.

Keywords:
physical anthropology, musculoskeletal system, human identification, human osteology

Paper ID: JFS10957J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS10957J
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