Novel application of three-dimensional technologies in a case of dismemberment. (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baier, Waltraud; Norman, Daniel G.; Warnett, Jason M.; Payne, Mark; Harrison, Nigel P.; Hunt, Nicholas C.A.; Burnett, Brian A.; Williams, Mark A.
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 270(2017)
• Page Start: 139
• Page End: 145
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Micro-CT -- 3D printing -- Police investigation -- Dismemberment -- Tool marks; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Forensic -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine légale -- Périodiques; Chimie légale -- Périodiques; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; Chemistry, Forensic; Medical jurisprudence; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.11.040
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0379-0738

Abstract

Highlights: The integration of 3D technology in the criminal investigation strategy is demonstrated on a real case. A new quality of evidence was produced. New ways of presenting evidence in court were explored. Abstract: This case study reports the novel application of three-dimensional technologies such as micro-CT and 3D printing to the forensic investigation of a complex case of dismemberment. Micro-CT was successfully employed to virtually align severed skeletal elements found in different locations, analyse tool marks created during the dismemberment process, and virtually dissect a charred piece of evidence. High resolution 3D prints of the burnt human bone contained within were created for physical visualisation to assist the investigation team. Micro-CT as a forensic radiological method provided vital information and the basis for visualisation both during the investigation and in the subsequent trial making it one of the first examples of such technology in a UK court.