FORENSIC ENTOMOLOGY: THE IMPORTANCE OF INSECTS IN ESTIMATING THE POST-DEATH INTERVAL

Abstract

Forensic Entomology is a science derived from Legal Medicine and presents the study of insects applied to the resolution of conflicts involving the Law. In the present work, we sought to understand how this study can be used when estimating the interval between death and the finding of the corpse by the authorities. There are several factors that will influence the analysis of the postmortem interval, such as the action related to the climate in which the body was found, the temperature of the place, the humidity, in short, all these circumstances must be considered in the study. After checking them, the entomologist, a professional who will carry out the study of cadaveric fauna, will turn his attention to the insects present on the body. Analyzing the development time of the adult insects, added to the development time of the larvae and the species found in the place, it is possible to determine with relative accuracy, the postmortem interval, as well as to demonstrate conjunctures that guide the death and eventual crime there committed. It is concluded that Forensic Entomology is a science that is extremely important, although little used in Brazil. Its use assists in Criminal Investigations, as it determines in a convincing manner the moment of death of a certain body found by the authorities, elucidating the facts and guaranteeing the applicability of Justice.