NCJ Number
208560
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2005 Pages: 5-11
Date Published
January 2005
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper provides guidance for expeditiously determining whether human remains unearthed as a result of some event such as erosion, construction, or vandalism may be those of a resident of a currently unknown historic or modern cemetery rather than a homicide victim.
Abstract
Three avenues of evidence can be used to determine whether the discovered remains are from a cemetery burial: the context, the condition of the remains, and the associated artifacts. Context refers to the nature of the site where the remains were found. This can be established through land titles and property tax records. Provided the age of the cemetery is consistent with the condition of the remains, the context affords the first line of evidence to support a cemetery origin for the remains. Analysis of surface features and the use of ground-penetrating radar can yield an estimate of the number of graves at the site. Regarding the condition of the remains, they can vary considerably, ranging from complete skeletonization to preserved soft tissues, hair, and finger and toe nails. The key factors that influence the degree and presence of soft tissue are time since death and the practice of embalming. The presence of embalmed tissue and the effects of embalming are indicative of a cemetery origin; however, the absence of embalming may not refute the possibility of cemetery origin for the remains, depending on historic period and cultural practices associated with the burial site. Burial artifacts--such as coffin handles, hinges, nails, screws, and ornamental trim, as well as other preservable items related to various types of burials--found at the site of the remains also indicate a cemetery origin. Two cases from British Columbia (Canada) are presented to illustrate the suggested investigative techniques. 5 figures and 21 references