Tattoos and tattoo inks: Forensic considerations

Abstract

AbstractTattoos and tattoo inks play a critical role in forensic investigations, and have done so for centuries. Tattoos are most useful as a means of identification for both the living and deceased. From their continued discovery on mummified remains dating from antiquity to their utilization in modern day investigations and prosecutions, tattoos demonstrate persistence and clues to cultural practices and identity. The tools and techniques of tattooing, as well as the phenomena of visualization of pigments according to the interaction of light radiation in human tissue is presented. An overview of the history of tattoos is provided, with a specific focus on tattoos in criminological, medicolegal and forensic investigations—from the characterization of criminals in the 19th century to the introduction of tattoo evidence in criminal trials of present day. Finally, an overview of the scientific study of tattoos and tattoo inks is presented, including the visualization of obscured tattoos, the chemical analysis of modern tattoo inks, and trends towards understanding the migration, retention, and photodecomposition of pigment particles. The purpose of this article is to draw attention to the importance and utilization of tattoos and tattoo inks in a forensic context—specifically highlighting that tattoos can prove critical to providing investigatory leads in criminal investigations and tattoos and tattoo inks should have an increased use in forensic endeavors moving forward, both in casework and scholarly research.This article is categorized under: Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Ink and Paper Analysis Forensic Science in Action/Crime Scene Investigation > Crime Scene Documentation and Visualization Forensic Science in Action/Crime Scene Investigation > Special Situations and Investigations Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and Methods