Potentials and limitations of the application of craniofacial reconstruction in forensic investigation

Abstract

The expansion of the universe of images, which can be considered as evidence in a forensic investigation, demands the development and application of a critical analysis of the images, as well as the study of its circulation and transformation.

This work suggests the necessity of contextualize the historical development of the craniofacial reconstruction, within the frame of biometrics and facial identification and evaluating the possibilities and limitations involved with its forensic application. It is proposed a contextualization of the most recent applications of anthropometry, as well as carry an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, with the aim of reaching clarity, with respect to the conditions in which it is appropriate to use and who are the suitable forensic professional experts, to whom ask for its application. Finally, it is concluded that, with the aim of make the most of the use of the forensic craniofacial reconstruction, it is necessary to have clarity about its limits, count with a profile of the suitable professionals and moderate the expectative concerning its scopes.