ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 8

Recognition of Cemetery Remains in the Forensic Setting
Berryman, HE
Assistant professors of pathology, University of Tennessee, TN

Smith, O'BC
Assistant professors of pathology, University of Tennessee, TN

Symes, SA
Assistant director, Regional Forensic Center, University of Tennessee, TN

Bass, WM
Head, University of Tennessee, TN

(Received 19 January 1990; accepted 6 April 1990)

Abstract

Cemetery remains exposed through vandalism or natural phenomena are frequently brought to the attention of law enforcement agents or medical examiners. Although it is often difficult to distinguish cemetery remains from those of medicolegal significance, clues to their origin may exist. Characteristics consistent with cemetery remains include physical characteristics associated with the embalming process. Characteristics indicative of cemetery remains include functional or ornamental artifacts associated with the coffin, devices used in embalming the body, and elevated levels of embalming chemicals in the soft tissue.

Keywords:
physical anthropology, pathology and biology, musculoskeletal system, embalming, decomposition, skeletal remains, graves

Paper ID: JFS13023J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13023J
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