NCJ Number
213754
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 51 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2006 Pages: 386-389
Date Published
March 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Three case studies are presented to show how the matching of unknown bodies to known missing persons is significantly delayed in Australia when the missing person's dental data are not included in the investigation.
Abstract
The three cases presented involved delays in the identification of bodies of persons who had been reported missing. Forensic odontology has been used in numerous cases in Australia when the identity of a body is unknown or uncertain due to its being skeletonized or burnt; however, the routine use of a forensic odontologist in missing person investigations is not practiced. As shown in the cases presented, this can result in lengthy delays in the identification of human remains. This paper proposes the creation of a national missing persons dental records database for missing persons investigations. In Australia, such a database could be incorporated into the National Coroners Information System, which is managed on behalf of Australia's coroners by the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. This would ensure collaboration in the maintenance and use of the system. Having such a database accessible to investigators involved in missing person investigations would facilitate the timely and efficient matching of known missing persons to unknown human remains. 28 references