76 Forensic dentistry
Private organizations may assist in identifying victims of crime, such
as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which can be
contacted and may provide information helpful in identifying decedents.
Various other programs are available for instances of natural or other dis-
asters through agencies such as the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response
Team (DMORT), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
5.11 Methodology for an Unidentified Person/Body
The examination of unidentified persons should be meticulous, well organized,
and methodical. Extensive photographs should be taken, including photos of
all distinguishing characteristics—eyes, tattoos, scars, etc.—as well as any and
all personal property, which should be inventoried and catalogued. In cases of
deceased individuals, a full autopsy should be performed, thoroughly docu-
menting all disease processes, presence and absence of organs or tissues, organ
weights, and detailed and accurate descriptions of all pertinent positive and nega-
tive findings. Full body radiographs should be taken and reviewed. Fingerprints,
dental charting, and a DNA sample must be taken on cases, where possible.
One unidentified person can require a great deal of organization and doc-
umentation to establish identity; however, in cases of natural or man-made
disasters, organization is a necessity. All bodies/body parts, including any
and all corresponding property, must be kept separate and uniquely marked.
Each body requires the same examination outlined above in an orderly and
organized manner, yet it must be conducted as rapidly as possible. In addi-
tion, mass disasters may include the need for decontamination of the bodies,
a media contact person for the central dispersion of information, as well as a
centralized record-keeping system.
It is important to remember that identification is an extremely important
task that allows for the grieving process of loved ones to begin as well as a
thorough investigation of the death. Identification can only be accomplished
through the meticulous examination of the remains. Though there is always
the pressure to rush, one must not sacrifice quality for the rapid answer, as
the quick answer is often not the correct one.
References
- FBI VICTIMS database http://www.victimsidproject.org/login.aspx
- National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). http://www.
namus.gov.