This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the methods of forensic archaeology, and particularly to the the main areas of recovery, search, skeletal analysis and analytical science, where archaeology can play a major part in criminal cases.

The study of forensic evidence using archaeology is a new discipline which has rapidly gained importance, not only in archaeological studies but also in the investigation of real crimes. Archaeological evidence is increasingly presented in criminal cases and has helped to secure a number of convictions. Studies in Crime surveys methods of searching for and locating buried remains, their practical recovery, the decay of human and associated death scene materials, the analysis and identification of human remains including the use of DNA, and dating the time of death. The book contains essential information for forensic scientists, archaeologists, police officers, police surgeons, pathologists and lawyers. Studies in Crime will also be of interest to members of the public interested in the investigation of death by unnatural causes, both ancient and modern.

The scope of this book is wide-ranging and includes methods of searching for and locating buried remains, their practical recovery, the decay of human and associated death scene materials, the analysis and identification.

Forensic archaeology is mostly defined as the use of archaeological methods and principles within a legal context. However, such a definition only covers one aspect of forensic archaeology and misses the full potential this discipline has to offer. This volume is unique in that it contains 57 chapters from experienced forensic archaeological practitioners working in different countries, intergovernmental organisations or NGO’s. It shows that the practice of forensic archaeology varies worldwide as a result of diverse historical, educational, legal and judicial backgrounds. The chapters in this volume will be an invaluable reference to (forensic) archaeologists, forensic anthropologists, humanitarian and human rights workers, forensic scientists, police officers, professionals working in criminal justice systems and all other individuals who are interested in the potential forensic archaeology has to offer at scenes of crime or places of incident. This volume promotes the development of forensic archaeology worldwide. In addition, it proposes an interpretative framework that is grounded in archaeological theory and methodology, integrating affiliated behavioural and forensic sciences.

Forensic archaeology has become a paramount tool with regard to the investigation of human rights abuses in recent times, by utilizing field techniques that provide a scientific means of searching, locating and recovering the victims of human rights abuses. By applying such techniques, human remains may be positively identified, thereby assisting survivors who are then able to lay their dead to rest and begin a process of closure after such tragic events have occurred. Additionally, the circumstances of the victim's demise will be accurately recorded, and in course this information will be duly presented in scientific terms to legal enforcing bodies, such as international criminal tribunals and domestic criminal courts. This book is unique in that it offers the reader a variety of topics and perspectives within one volume from contributors from across the globe, coming from a variety of diverse disciplines and experiences covering a broad spectrum that encompasses human rights investigations. It will also serve as a reference source for governmental agencies that are involved in conducting human rights investigations at various levels, including the provision of effective military assistance to those working in the field. Non-governmental organizations involved in human rights investigations will also find it to be an excellent reference that may be utilized in order for them to more effectively provide assistance in the areas of psychological, social, health, and humanitarian assistance in zones where civilians have been killed on a large scale. The book will be of interest to professionals in the fields of forensic pathology, international law, sociology, cultural anthropology, political science and biological sciences.

With contributions from 70 experienced practitioners from around the world, this second edition of the authoritative Handbook of Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology provides a solid foundation in both the practical and ethical components of forensic work. The book weaves together the discipline’s historical development; current field methods for analyzing crime, natural disasters, and human atrocities; an array of laboratory techniques; key case studies involving legal, professional, and ethical issues; and ideas about the future of forensic work--all from a global perspective. This fully revised second edition expands the geographic representation of the first edition by including chapters from practitioners in South Africa and Colombia, and adds exciting new chapters on the International Commission on Missing Persons and on forensic work being done to identify victims of the Battle of Fromelles during World War I. The Handbook of Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology provides an updated perspective of the disciplines of forensic archaeology and anthropology.

A practical guide to death scene investigation and excavation with case examples, for use as a text in Forensic Archaeology or Forensic Anthropology, as well as Crime Scene Investigation courses.