Forensic entomologists study insects found at crime scenes to help identify criminal circumstances and perpetrators. They collect and study insects from the body and surrounding area to determine the time of death and other important information. Admissible evidence must follow strict guidelines, and extensive education is required to become a forensic entomologist.
A forensic entomologist is a scientist who studies insects found at violent crime scenes to help law enforcement agencies identify criminal circumstances and perpetrators. She usually works in conjunction with various agencies that provide laboratories to study the collected samples. Her work can be employee-based or she can work as an independent contractor. Many forensic entomologists also teach at colleges or universities or focus their careers on research.
Gathering evidence at the crime scene is extraordinarily time-consuming for someone with this job. Normally, she is expected to collect insects from the body, including skin, clothing, jewelry, and orifices. The area immediately around the body is also commonly scanned for insects that may be on the assailant. Studying various aspects of the insects, such as type, stage of development or the damage they caused to the body, can help determine an approximate time when the crime occurred.
The climate in the area is also typically important in the investigation. The entomologist is usually able to study weather patterns before and after the criminal act to determine the life stages of insects at the site. She can reduce the time of death by looking at which insects were present during hot, cold or wet weather and when they were on the body or in the surrounding area.
The insects on the body provide the forensic entomologist with important information about the corpse. For example, if the observed insects are larvae, their growth and developmental stage reveal how long they have been in the body, making it possible to determine the time of death. Other insects, dead and alive, can be studied to determine whether they are indigenous to the area or transported there by the aggressor or victim.
Because evidence collected by a forensic entomologist must be found admissible in court, she is typically required to follow strict guidelines for collection and storage. While following these rules does not guarantee the admissibility of evidence, it does protect against the most common mistakes being made. A law enforcement officer often accompanies the entomologist to verify that proper steps have been taken during this phase of the investigation.
To become a forensic entomologist, extensive education is required. First, a bachelor’s degree in entomology or forensic science is required. Thereafter, a person desiring this position typically takes specific classes related to forensic entomology in pursuit of a master’s degree in the subject. Internships are usually required for this position to provide candidates with hands-on experience in the field with an experienced forensic entomologist.
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