The importance of stratigraphy in forensic investigation

Journal: Geological Society Special Publication

Volume: 232

Pages: 39-47

ISSN: 0305-8719

DOI: 10.1144/GSL.SP.2004.232.01.06

Abstract:

The laws of stratigraphy, developed in geology, have long been adopted for archaeological use. Archaeological excavation in the UK relies on the application of these principles to define, interpret and understand site history. The adaptation of archaeological methods to forensic settings has recently resulted in successful analysis of stratigraphy-defining complex series of events on murder burial scenes. The breadth of physical evidence that can be recovered through stratigraphic excavation is great, and that which can be lost without due attention to the buried surfaces forming an intrinsic part of the stratified deposits of a site is significant. Recent case examples demonstrate the importance of employing stratigraphical principles in the excavation and interpretion of buried cultural and natural deposits as part of multidisciplinary forensic investigation. © The Geological Society of London, 2004.

Source: Scopus

The Importance of Stratigraphy in Forensic Investigation

Authors: Hanson, I.

Journal: Geological Society London Special Publications

Volume: 232

Pages: 39-47

ISSN: 0305-8719

DOI: 10.1144/GSL.SP.2004.232.01.06

Abstract:

The laws of stratigraphy, developed in geology, have long been adopted for archaeological use. Archaeological excavation in the UK relies on the application of these principles to define, interpret and understand site history. The adaptation of archaeological methods to forensic settings has recently resulted in successful analysis of stratigraphy-defining complex series of events on murder burial scenes. The breadth of physical evidence that can be recovered through stratigraphic excavation is great, and that which can be lost without due attention to the buried surfaces forming an intrinsic part of the stratified deposits of a site is significant. Recent case examples demonstrate the importance of employing stratigraphical principles in the excavation and interpretation of buried cultural and natural deposits as part of multidisciplinary forensic investigation.

http://sp.lyellcollection.org/cgi/content/abstract/232/1/39

Source: Manual

Preferred by: Ian Hanson