A Forensic Entomologist is called to a crime scene where a body is found with maggots covering it. The Entomologist takes samples of many of the maggots found and then turns to the Forensic Investigator and says "I can say with certainty that the time of death is about 4:00pm 4 days ago."

1) Did the forensic entomologist analyze and interpret the data correctly? Why or why not?

2) What would have been a more appropriate response?

3) What analysis should be performed in order to determine an estimated postmortem interval?

Question

A Forensic Entomologist is called to a crime scene where a body is found with maggots covering it. The Entomologist takes samples of many of the maggots found and then turns to the Forensic Investigator and says "I can say with certainty that the time of death is about 4:00pm 4 days ago."

1) Did the forensic entomologist analyze and interpret the data correctly? Why or why not?

2)  What would have been a more appropriate response?

3)  What analysis should be performed in order to determine an estimated postmortem interval?

Icyhot · Answer

Thank you so much for your help @moonymoonlight  I've been working on this for 2 days now and this is the last question. Thank you

MoonyMoonlight · Answer

1) Nope. The entomologist has not done any kind of lab experiments and tests to derive on the proper conclusion.
2) Saying that we need to check. (or something that doesn't give a confirmation)
 Maybe the day might have been correct but the time determination can only be done through proper tests.
3) Species identification, the stage in which the insect was formed etc.

MoonyMoonlight · Answer

Welcome :)