Geophysical techniques for forensic investigation

Abstract

A wide range of geophysical techniques is applied in forensic investigations where the target objects are frequently buried under ground and are often small in size. These include targets which are only a few centimetres in diameter but located within a large search area are often of several hectares. The application of a specific geophysical technique may be governed by the physical properties of the target object and its local surroundings. However, operational and financial costs are important. Topographical and geological variations or presence of man-made structures may hinder the application of the most cost-effective technique. Additionally, site area, logistics and weather conditions are also important factors.Generally, to overcome these difficulties it is recommended that forensic geophysics be carried out along conventional geophysical guidelines as used in civil-engineering site investigation. On occasion, departure from these conventional guidelines may be beneficial in that field survey data acquisition can be complemented by simultaneous direct invasive assessment of geophysical anomalies instead of waiting until office reporting has been completed. Three case studies are presented: one relates to a search for a buried metal target located using a scanning magnetometer with simultaneous excavation, and two relate to searches for graves and buried wooden coffins

Monitoring controlled graves representing common burial scenarios with ground penetrating radar

“…In the past decade, there has been an increased interest in the application of forensic geoscience in the field of criminal investigations (Billinger, 2009;Davenport, 2001;Fenning and Donnelly, 2004;Morgan and Bull, 2007;Pye, 2007;Pye and Croft, 2004;Ruffell andMcKinley, 2005, 2008;Ruffell et al, 2009;Schultz, 2007b). Because of the growing interest in the field of forensic geoscience, the use of geophysical tools, especially ground penetrating radar (GPR), to locate clandestine graves and physical evidence associated with criminal activity, has received growing acceptance by criminal investigators.…”

Forensic Investigation of Abandoned GSIS Building in Manila

“…With the use of STAAD software program, the loadings and capacities of the building were generated [11,12]. The design codes of ACI and NSCP were used to compare the capacities and loading from which the design of the structure was based.…”

Holocaust Archaeology: Archaeological Approaches to Landscapes of Nazi Genocide and Persecution

“…This will be based on knowledge about the site gained through the deskbased assessment process and the experience of the geophysicist. As Cheetham (2005) (Gaffney and Gater 2003;Fenning and Donnelley 2004). This is important as choosing inappropriate methods can result in an apparent lack of archaeological remains, where in fact it has just been missed through human error.…”