A technical protocol for using ground penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography in the search for covert graves

The location of covert graves is an important but challenging part of missing persons investigations. Although traditional search techniques, such as foot searches and cadaver dogs, have proved successful, the incorporation of higher technology methods, such as geophysical techniques, can be used to increase the chances of locating covert graves. This article will present a field method for the use of two geophysical techniques, including ground penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography, which can successfully locate covert graves in an Australian environment. If the soil and climate conditions permit, this technical protocol can be applied to other clandestine grave search sites as well. Ultimately, by increasing chances of locating the covert grave, and by extension the missing person, a successful judicial outcome can be achieved and highly sought after answers can be provided to the family

Data associated with 'Comparison of time-lapse ground-penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography surveys for detecting pig (Sus spp.) cadaver graves in an Australian environment’'

Locating clandestine graves presents significant challenges to law enforcement agencies, necessitating the testing of grave detection techniques. This experimental study assesses the effectiveness of time-lapse ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) in detecting pig burials as simulated forensic cases. The research addresses three key questions: 1) observability of graves using GPR and ERT, 2) changes in geophysical responses over time, and 3) suitability of GPR and ERT as search techniques for covert graves. The results reveal that both GPR and ERT can detect graves; however, ERT demonstrates greater suitability in homogeneous soil and anomalously wet climate conditions, with detectability affected by grave depth. Additionally, resistivity values are influenced by soil moisture and decomposition fluids. The findings underscore the significance of site-specific factors when employing GPR and/or ERT for grave detection, including soil homogeneity, climate conditions, water percolation, and body decomposition state. These findings offer practical insights for law enforcement agencies dealing with homicide cases involving covert graves

A technical protocol for 3D observation and documentation of human decomposition

The changes that occur to the human body after death reflect a multitude of complex biological processes, which can be impacted by a collection of variables that are not yet fully understood. Typically, information is obtained through in-situ examination and/or 2D data collection, which may restrict the availability of data and prevent collection of valuable information. To address this gap, the aim of this paper is to present a protocol for 3D data collection of human decomposition in outdoor environments. The specific objectives include presenting an approach and framework using wildlife cameras and performing 3D observation of a decomposing body. The method includes the design and construction of a walk-in cage including five frames holding 31 cameras, installed at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research. Preliminary trials completed on one subject in Zurich and various objects provided promising results through the generation of a 3D model. Comparing the wildlife cameras 3D model with a high-quality 3D model showed only minor discrepancies. This approach will be used in a study designed to improve our understanding of the human decomposition process to ultimately assist investigators with PMI estimations and to help reconstruct the sequence of events and time of death. © 2022 Australian Academy of Forensic Sciences