Question

Paul is a death scene investigator who is employed in a small, rural, jurisdiction. When Paul needs to have a recognizable decedent positively identified he has the next of kin or family view a digital image that he takes of the decedent's face with a digital camera. While this method of identification is not scientific, it is easy, inexpensive, and approved for use in jurisdiction where Paul works. The above described method used by Paul is known as "visual identification

1) TRUE.
2) FALSE.

Answer 1

The method Paul uses for identification by having relatives view digital images is known as visual identification. This method is non-scientific and contrasts with forensic genetics and forensic anthropology, which use DNA and skeletal analysis for identification and investigation in legal contexts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The method described, where Paul has the next of kin visually identify a decedent from a digital image of their face, is known as visual identification. Although this method is not scientific, in Paul's small, rural jurisdiction, it is deemed an accepted practice.

It contrasts with the scientific methods used by forensic geneticists who identify individuals by comparing DNA sequences, which can be useful in paternity cases or matching DNA from a crime scene with that of a suspect. Forensic anthropology similarly uses scientific techniques to analyze human remains for victim identification and assisting in determining cause of death, providing invaluable support to forensic pathologists.