NotesWala
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FMT - Second Year BHMS

PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

To identify a person, the first step is to observe the external physical characteristics such as facial features, height, weight, and body build. The following are the steps involved in the identification of age, sex, race, and religion:

  • Age:

    • Estimate the age by observing the development of secondary sex characteristics, such as facial hair, body hair, and breast development.
    • Check the condition of the teeth, particularly the presence of wisdom teeth.
    • Examine the shape and alignment of the teeth.
    • Look for signs of aging such as wrinkles, graying of hair, and loss of hair.

  • Sex:

    • Observe the external genitalia and check for the presence of a penis and testes in males and a vulva and ovaries in females.
    • Check the shape of the pelvis and the presence of a vaginal opening in females.
    • Examine the breast tissue and the presence of nipples.
    • Look for signs of circumcision in males.

  • Race:

    • Observe the skin color and texture.
    • Examine the shape of the eyes, nose, and lips.
    • Check the shape of the hair and its texture.
    • Look for any distinguishing features such as tattoos or scars.

  • Religion:

    • Examine the clothing and accessories worn by the individual.
    • Check for any symbols or markings on the body such as tattoos or scarifications.
    • Observe the presence of any religious texts or artifacts.
    • Look for any signs of ritualistic practices such as circumcision or genital mutilation.

Dactylography (Fingerprinting)

Dactylography is the study of fingerprints, which are unique to each individual. Fingerprinting is used to identify individuals and is a widely accepted method of personal identification.

  • Process of Fingerprinting:
    • Collect fingerprints from the fingertips, palms, and soles.
    • Apply a powder or ink to the fingers to enhance the ridges.
    • Take impressions of the fingerprints using a glass or plastic sheet.
    • Compare the fingerprints with known prints to identify the individual.

Medicolegal Importance of Dactylography

Dactylography is an essential tool in forensic science, particularly in the identification of human remains. It is used to:

  • Identify Human Remains:

    • Compare fingerprints from the remains with known prints to identify the individual.
    • Use fingerprints to identify the remains in cases where other identification methods are not possible.

  • Investigate Crimes:

    • Compare fingerprints found at the crime scene with known prints to identify the perpetrator.
    • Use fingerprints to link suspects to crimes.

Methods of Identification of Data with Specific Reference to Anthropometry

Anthropometry is the study of the measurement of human physical characteristics. It is used to identify individuals by their physical measurements.

  • Methods of Anthropometry:
    • Measure the length and breadth of the head, face, and body.
    • Measure the length and width of the arms, legs, and hands.
    • Measure the circumference of the head, neck, and body.
    • Compare the measurements with known data to identify the individual.

Medicolegal Importance of DNA Fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting is a method of identifying individuals by their unique DNA profile. It is a widely accepted method of personal identification and is used in forensic science to:

  • Identify Human Remains:

    • Compare DNA from the remains with known DNA to identify the individual.
    • Use DNA to identify the remains in cases where other identification methods are not possible.

  • Investigate Crimes:

    • Compare DNA found at the crime scene with known DNA to identify the perpetrator.
    • Use DNA to link suspects to crimes.

  • Exonerate the Innocent:

    • Use DNA to exclude individuals from being suspects in crimes.
    • Use DNA to prove the innocence of individuals.