2.12.4 Investigative photography and forensic anthropology
Forensic anthropology relies heavily on visual inspection and examination of deceased human bodies for identity assignment. Photography is a critical tool in this field for documenting physical features such as skeletal remains and contextual details of the body’s deposition and creating biological profiles. Historical examples demonstrate the significance of photography in the discipline’s development, with collaborations with archaeologists proving instrumental in proper body recovery techniques. The collaborative efforts between forensic anthropologists, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing the complex challenges of missing persons cases. Ultimately, these efforts highlight the significance of photography and forensic anthropology as indispensable tools in the pursuit of justice and closure for the families of missing persons.
The National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in the USA, is an important example of the application of forensic anthropology resources that provides us with a wealth of good practices and technical tools. NCMEC partners with a variety of forensic professionals to provide cutting-edge forensic resources on cases involving missing and exploited children:
- Authenticating Communications (Handwriting, ID Docs)
- Carbon Dating
- Chemical Isotope Analysis
- Clandestine Grave Search Efforts
- Entomology
- Exhumation Assistance
- Facial Comparison
- Facial Reconstructions from Skeletal Remains and Soft Tissue
- Fingerprint and Latent Print Examinations
A tool with significant potential for locating missing persons is artificial intelligence. Aspects such as machine learning and deep learning consist of face recognition algorithms capable of detecting and identifying faces in large datasets. Another possible application is to find patterns of behaviour after clustering similar cases, with the aim of creating predictive models for the outcome of each disappearance.
Mercedes Salado Puerto et. Al. (2021) have presented a module for Search process and Forensic Data Management, in their paper as the result of discussions between the Forensic Unit of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and members of its external Forensic Advisory Board. To effectively aid search efforts and support families of missing persons, establishing a dedicated information management system (IMS) is crucial. While often associated with database management systems (DBMS), an IMS encompasses a broader scope, managing data comprehensively across various formats. Within the search process, forensic data management is integral, involving storing, analyzing, and sharing data among stakeholders. By incorporating forensic data management into the IMS, relevant information can be efficiently accessed and utilized, ensuring accurate support for search activities and assistance to families of missing persons.
(Mercedes Salado Puerto et. Al., 2021)
A collaborative approach involving multiple agencies with defined roles is essential for a well-integrated process. Ideally, a leading agency should oversee the entire process to ensure its effective management. Typically, the medico-legal and death investigation system handles the identification of missing persons and human remains in cases of death. Various units within this system operate with specific tasks and responsibilities aligned with their roles. The identification coordinator is responsible for integrating outcomes from each step and analyzing and reconciling information.
A range of specialist supports can be activated to address various aspects of missing persons cases, pointing out the need for collaborative approach. Following the example of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the operational organograms of search and rescue teams such as “Lowland Rescue”
Different types of specialists are outlined as possible actors in the field of missing people. Forensic professionals, provide tools for investigation and evidence for identification with valuable expertise. For example, forensic geneticists concentrate on studying DNA evidence to identify people and establish familial links, forensic anthropologists specialize in evaluating skeletal remains to ascertain identities and reasons of death, digital forensic analysts retrieve and assess digital evidence, such as electronic conversations and device data. Forensic artists can develop age progressions or facial reconstructions to help identify missing people. Data analysts examine big databases in search of patterns or trends pertaining to situations involving missing persons. Public relations managers and information specialists handle media and public relations.
Psychologists and mental health professionals offer emotional support, counseling, and assistance to anybody associated with missing persons cases, including families, volunteers, and other professionals, while social workers provide assistance in assessing possible resources. Legal experts offer expertise on pertinent laws and rules pertaining to cases involving missing individuals. Search and rescue teams and volunteers are skilled individuals prepared to carry out searches in a variety of terrains and conditions handling technology tools, leading, planning and managing the operations, while canine search teams use specially trained dogs to locate missing people by detecting their scent.
