1The analyses of the insect species found on decomposing remains may provide useful information 2 for the estimation of the minimum time elapsed since death and other parameters, such as causes 3 and circumstances of death. The majority of research has focused on the early colonising species, 4 typically blowflies, while research concerning late colonising insects is currently sparse. Dermestid 5 beetles of the genus Dermestes L. (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) are one of the predominant insect 6 species associated with decomposing remains during dry decay and skeletal stages of 7 decomposition. In some dry environments Dermestes species are likely to be the only necrophagous 8 insects feeding on the decomposing remains. Furthermore, Dermestes species (immature and 9 adults), their remains (cast skins and fecal material) and their artifacts (pupal chambers) are 10 frequently found associated with ancient remains (e.g. mummies, fossils). Dermestes species have a 11 worldwide distribution and are considered important in decomposition processes, forensic 12 investigations and economically as a known pest of stored products. Despite their recognised 13 forensic importance, there is limited data documenting the ecology, biology and the growth rates of 14 the forensically relevant species. 15The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive synopsis on the available literature concerning 16Dermestes species associated with forensic cases. In particular, aspects of colonisation behaviour, 17 growth rates for forensic taxa and potential best practice guidelines for forensic casework 18 encompassing late colonising Dermestes species are discussed. 19 20

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Management of a crime is the process of ensuring accurate and effective collection and preservation of physical evidence. Forensic botany can provide significant supporting evidences during criminal investigations. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the importance of forensic botany in the crime scene. We reported a case of a woman affected by dementia who had disappeared from nursing care and was found dead near the banks of a river that flowed under a railroad. Two possible ways of access to crime scene were identified and denominated "Path A" and "Path B." Both types of soil and plants were identified. Botanical survey was performed. Some samples of Xanthium Orientalis subsp. Italicum were identified. The fall of woman resulted in external injuries and vertebral fracture at autopsy. The botanical evidence is important when crime scene and autopsy findings are not sufficient to define the dynamics and the modality of death.

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