Insect Utilization in Criminal Investigations: The Imperative of Forensic Entomology and its Future Future Prospects

Abstract

Forensic entomology is the practice of collecting, examining, and presenting insect-related evidence to support forensic investigations. The findings from such investigations play a vital role in civil and criminal cases, including law enforcement, conflict resolution, and national security matters. These findings are recognized and accepted by various legal systems worldwide. This paper specifically delves into the criminal aspect of forensic investigations, focusing on the role of forensic entomology within the field of criminology.
 In criminal cases, particularly those involving murder, forensic investigations aim to address key questions concerning the 'when,' 'where,' and 'how' of the crime. However, when a considerable amount of time has passed since the victim's death and most other biological evidence has deteriorated or become unrecoverable, the analysis of insect evidence found on the deceased becomes a crucial method for uncovering details about the victim's demise. This is where forensic entomology takes center stage, and it serves as the primary emphasis of this paper.
 The following review encompasses a comprehensive exploration of the history, methodology, and scientific principles of forensic entomology. It discusses the utility of forensic entomology in criminal investigations, highlights landmark cases where entomological evidence played a pivotal role in solving crimes, and considers the potential for further development and expansion within this field."