Forensic Human Identification
In 2006, on its 5th anniversary, BAHID produced its first textbook edited by Tim Thompson and Sue Black entitled ‘Forensic Human Identification – An introduction’. All royalties from the sale of this text pass directly back to BAHID.
Forensic Human Identification: An Introduction examines the variety of
biological indicators that are available to investigators and
illustrates the basic principles of each discipline. While DNA and
fingerprints are clearly the favored methods of identification, they
require a prior record and verifiable baseline for comparison. When
these tools cannot be used it is necessary to employ those biological
factors with higher variation and lower diagnostic probability. This
reference introduces a number of different specialties such as, foot-
and earprinting, dental interventions, skeletal anomalies, tattoos,
facial reconstruction, personal effects, and handwriting. While
recognizing that no single factor is an absolute indicator of identity,
the contributors explain how a multitude of factors taken into
summative consideration can establish a probability for confirmation.
They discuss the difference between positive and probable
identification and the use of exclusion to confirm identity. Using
three high profile case studies, the book addresses the context of
human identification in today's society and illustrates the use of
techniques described in the text.
Heavily referenced and using
more than 120 charts, figures, photographs, and tables, Forensic Human
Identification: An Introduction provides detailed introductory and
extended information to newcomers and experts alike on the wide range
of identification techniques in international practice.