ABSTRACT
This chapter discribes the collection and use of entomological evidence in criminal investigations. It is derived from studies of human cadavers at the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee, as well as various studies documenting insect succession in experimental carcasses under various environmental conditions around the world. Gruesome, but surprisingly appealing, forensic entomology has become an increasingly important aspect of criminal investigations and a popular topic for television series and university courses. Forensic entomology is particularly important for estimation of time since death, a measure that can help solve cases by associating the victim with the criminal or eliminating potential suspects. An entomologist is not available locally to collect evidence. In this case, criminal investigators trained in entomological techniques must collect and send appropriate information and specimens to a collaborating forensic entomologist. The correlation between temperature and insect growth and development is well known for many insect species, including those of forensic importance.
