Homicide Cases Research Articles

Inter-city firm connections and the scaling of urban economic indicators

Abstract Cities exhibit consistent returns to scale in economic outputs, and urban scaling analysis is widely adopted to uncover common mechanisms in cities' socioeconomic productivity. Leading theories view cities as closed systems, with returns to scale arising from intra-city social interactions. Here, we argue that the interactions between cities, particularly via shared organizations such as firms, significantly influence a city's economic output. By examining global data on city connectivity through multinational firms alongside urban scaling GDP statistics from the US, EU, and China, we establish that global connectivity notably enhances GDP, while controlling for population. After accounting for global connectivity, the effect of population on GDP is no longer distinguishable from linear. To differentiate between local and global mechanisms, we analyzed homicide case data, anticipating dominant local effects. As expected, inter-city connectivity showed no significant impact. Our research highlights that inter-city effects affect some urban outputs more than others. This empirical analysis lays the groundwork for incorporating inter-city organizational connections into urban scaling theories and could inform future model development.

Homicides by offenders with psychotic illness in Italy and Turkiye: A comparison of offender and crime-scene profiles

ObjectiveThe primary aim of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of homicide cases and their perpetrators with psychotic illnesses in Italy and Turkiye, identifying the extent to which country-specific factors influence offender profiles and crime-scene characteristics. MethodThis cross-national chart review study recruited individuals with psychotic illnesses from forensic psychiatric centers in Italy and Turkiye who were referred for criminal responsibility assessments. Data were collected on the offenders' background characteristics, psychiatric history, victim profiles, and crime-scene details. ResultsCompared to the Italian sample, a higher prevalence of hospitalizations, contact with mental health services, and past offending history prior to the index homicide in the Turkish sample highlight inadequate community mental health care and monitoring systems, as well as insufficient supervision by the criminal justice system in Turkiye. Turkish offenders were less likely to exhibit organized crime scenes and post-crime behavior, with fewer stressors preceding the offense, suggesting a greater role of positive psychotic symptoms in their homicidal acts. ConclusionDespite certain similarities, the differences between the two samples highlight the impact of sociocultural, healthcare, and legal systems on offender profiles and crime-scene characteristics. These findings emphasize the need for tailored mental health services, forensic psychiatric assessments and legal supervision that take into account country-specific factors.

Mistakes in Personal Identification Attempts

The following study is meant to present the most frequent mistakes (dangers) of identity parades (line-up, recognition) and their possible consequences, such as for instance the worst outcome: justizmord, (miscarriage of justice). The author analyses sources of criminal tactical and criminal technical major errors through real international and Hungarian homicide cases and suggests legislative changes “de lege ferenda” as well as preventive methods and tactics for law enforcers and criminalists as well.

The Influence of Development of Feminism on Creation of Suspense Novels: Analysis from the Perspective of Ecofeminism

This study focuses on the feminist interpretation of female criminal factors in suspense novels by female writers and explores the impact of the evolution of feminist thought on the creation of female writers in different eras. The research background is based on the two major factors of “castration emotion” and “patriarchal resistance” in female criminal psychology, combined with the expressions of female writers on life and death issues, taking into account the impact of the development of feminism on female writers in the era, and reflecting on the internal society Paradox emphasizes that gender equality and nature conservation are closely linked. Through text analysis, document analysis, and comparative analysis, starting from ecofeminism, the feminist thoughts on the female homicide cases in the text are analyzed. The study found that the change in narrative perspective from Agatha to Tokarczuk reflects the improvement of feminist consciousness. The evolution of female roles from male subordinates to independent individuals reflects the development of feminism. Finally, the transformation of female subject consciousness emphasizes the progress of women’s thinking as independent individuals. This study shows that the works created by female writers were influenced by the feminist movement at that time to varying degrees. The highlight of the research is to make up for the scarcity of research on ecofeminism and Tokarczuk in China. Through comparison, the comparative perspective of the texts of the two female writers is supplemented.

Studies On The Statistical Analysis And Impact Of Seasonal Temperature And Relative Humidity Variation On The Development Of A Flesh Fly Sarcophagadux(Thomson 1869)(Diptera Sarcophagidae)

Background: The fleshfly Sarcophaga dux (Diptera;Sarcophagidae) is found in Indian Sub continent is of limited forensic significance as its poorly known larval development relationship with temperature and relative humidity. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the temperature and relative humidity in the larval development of this fly in two seasons, Summer and Rain, so that the results of this study may enabling the forensic use of this fly in the estimation of Post Mortem Interval(PMI). Material and Method: The present study was carried out in the outer premises of the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory Building, Jagdalpur, Bastardist,Chhattishgarh, India. The fresh meat of male goat was used for rearing of larvae. The effect of temperature and relative humidity on the larval developmental time of this fly in two seasons, Rainy and Summer were studied in normal condition. Statistical analysis of variance was performed and standard significance level of P<0.05 was taken as standard. Results: The results of this study shown that in Rainy season it was completed in 264 h (11 days) when the average temperature ranged from 21.8°C to 24.5°C and the average humidity ranged from 79.5% to 95.5% where as in Summer it was completed in 528 hrs (22 days), when the temperature ranged from 26.5°C to 35.1°C and the humidity ranged from 34% to 67.5%. The P value was found to be P<<.05 in Temperature variation; andP<<0.05 in Humidity variation in different stages(1st instar larvae, 2nd instar larvae, 3rd instar larvae, Prepupae, Pupae and Adult). Conclusion: In the present study we have found that fluctuating temperature and relative humidity of outer condition in two seasons, Rainy and Summer effect the life cycle duration of the fly from the larvi position up to adult eclosion and statistical analysis has proved it to significant rejecting null hypothesis. This data can be further used in the estimation of Post Mortem Interval (PMI) in Homicide and Suspicious cases of both human and wild life poaching death cases.

An examination of body disposal patterns in sexual and non-sexual homicides

ABSTRACT Body disposal methods complicate homicide investigations, obscuring links between both demographic factors and crime scene behaviors. This study is a comprehensive empirical assessment of offender and victim demographics, alongside crime scene behaviors, in relation to body disposal methods in homicides. This was done through the examination of 326 homicide cases involving 403 offenders and 334 victims through regression analyses. Key findings revealed significant associations between body disposal methods and factors such as victim gender, substance use by victims and offenders, and offenders’ prior sexual offense records. Additionally, the cause of death, location, and cleaning or destruction of evidence were predictive of disposal methods taking place. Notably, the presence of sexual elements appeared to influence only a small number of factors, being victim gender and crime scene cleaning. These results suggest enhanced investigative training on recognizing crime scene and victim characteristics may aid in refining investigative approaches and hypotheses. The findings also suggest that distinguishing between sexual and non-sexual homicides may not be crucial, allowing for more streamlined investigations and better resource allocation. This research advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to improve investigative accuracy, highlighting the pivotal role of understanding the interconnectedness of behaviors in understanding body disposal.

Profile of Homicidal Death Cases: One-Year Retrospective Study

Background: Homicide is regarded as a notorious crime against the society that causes intentional killing, aggravated assaults resulting in death. Nowadays, the incidence of homicide is increasing worldwide and it is a matter of great concern all over the world and it has significant consequence for both social and economic security of the people as well as national development. Objective: This study was aimed to describe the pattern homicidal behavior and the relationships among socio-demographic characteristics. Materials and Methods: A record-based retrospective cross-sectional study includes 180 cases of homicide out of the total of 1296 medico-legal autopsies conducted at Forensic Medicine Department of Dhaka Medical College during the year from July 2021 to June 2022. Results: A total number of 1296 medico-legal autopsies were conducted, of them 180(13.89%) cases were homicide and others (RTA, suicide, fall from height, poisoning, hanging, burn) were 1116(86.11%). Out of 180 homicidal death, most of them were 30-40 age group 66(36.67%), 144 cases were male (80 %) and 36 were female (20 %) whereas considering religion, the majority were Muslim 156 in number (86.67%) and the rest were of other religion. Among the homicidal death married were 150 (83.33%), in case of occupation most of them were Jobholder 39 (21.67%). According to the method of homicide, stab wound was the favorite homicide method used over victims 60(33.33%), 36(20%) cases were chop, 30(16.67%) cases were gunshot & strangulation and 24(13.33%) cases were others causes. Regarding place of residence of most of them were from Shahbag thana 108(60%). Conclusion: Stab wound was the favorite homicide method in Bangladesh and the most common age of the victims were 30-40 age group. The usefulness of the data in the scientific community is the database of homicide that should be advantageous for pathologists and forensic scientists work and particularly to be a guideline for homicide investigations in Bangladesh. KYAMC Journal Volume: 15, No: 01, April 2024: 25-28.

ALLEVIATION OF ARSENIC INDUCED THYROID DYSFUNCTION AND BODY WEIGHT ALTERATIONS BY CURCUMIN

Background: Arsenic is notorious for being used in many homicidal cases. This study was designed to observe the toxic effects of low dose of arsenic on thyroid gland and body weight and its amelioration by curcumin. Method: Thirty healthy female Sprague Dawley rats (body weight ~230 g) were procured from The National Institute of Health Islamabad. After one week of acclimatization, animals were randomly divided into three groups (n=10 each), e.g., Control group (C), Experimental group-1 (E1) and Experimental group-2 (E2). The duration of the experiment was one month. Weight of the animals was checked before and at the end of experiment. All the animals were continued on standard diet and distilled water during experimental period. E1 was given 10 µg/10 mL of arsenic by oral gavage daily. E2 was given 10 µg/10 mL of arsenic along with Curcumin (50 mg/Kg body weight/day). At the end of experiment, the rats were euthanized to draw the blood and removal of thyroid gland. Serum Triiodothyronine, Tetraiodothyronine and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone were measured by ELISA. Histological changes were observed after haematoxylin and eosin staining. Statistical analysis was done on SPSS-22 and p?0.05 was considered significant. Results: The histological findings of thyroid gland, body weight and serum T3, T4 and TSH in E1 exhibited abnormal results. E2 group showed the protecting role of curcumin suggesting protective role of curcumin. Conclusion: Curcumin has protective effects against arsenic induced thyroid disruption and body weight alterations. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(3): DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i3.1686

Eu-MOF-based highly sensitive and selective luminescence probe for trace, in situ and visual detection of flunitrazepam

Flunitrazepam, as an emerging new psychoactive substance classified as a third-generation drug that is more harmful and camouflaged, is gradually proliferating globally. Maliciously used as a criminal tool in homicide and rape cases, it has already caused serious harm to public safety and social stability. Owing to its special molecular structure, low concentration level and rapid metabolic process in the human body, accurate detection of flunitrazepam remains a major challenge, especially for real sample and on-site detection. In this paper, a lanthanide MOF (Eu-MOF) based on bi-ligand was constructed as a luminescence probe and used for the first time to detect trace amounts of flunitrazepam. The ’antenna effect’ promotes strong luminescence of Eu-MOF, while the lower LUMO orbital energy level of flunitrazepam allows it to accept electrons from the electron donor leading to quenching of Eu-MOF luminescence. The probe has a high sensitivity and can detect flunitrazepam in the range of 0–800 μM with a detection limit as low as 73 nM. Moreover, flunitrazepam was detected in urine from real samples as well as in a variety of beverages to further validate its accuracy and practicality. The reported Eu-MOF represents one of the pioneering luminescence probes for the detection of flunitrazepam, which offers great promise for the on-site or on-line analysis of flunitrazepam.

Older Adult Family Homicide in Victoria, Australia 2001–2015: A Description of Family and Family Violence Homicide Victimisation

Abstract Purpose This study examined factors present among older adult family homicide victims and their offenders compared to younger adult family homicide using the social-ecological model. Method The study used a population-based single-jurisdiction cross-sectional design of consecutive homicide cases of adults (aged 18 years and older) reported to the coroner in Victoria, Australia for the period 2001–2015. Included were homicides involving an intimate or familial relationship. The data source was the Victorian Homicide Register, maintained by the Coroners Court of Victoria. Descriptive and multivariate analysis was performed to compare the presence of factors between younger and older adult family homicides. Results During the study period 37/283 (13.1%) family homicides occurred among older adult victims (aged 65 years and older) and 246/283 (86.9%) occurred among younger adults (aged 18–64 years). The deceased older adult was often male (57%), with a documented physical illness (54%). Offenders against the older adult were frequently male (68%), non-intimately related (73%), with diagnosed mental illness, a history of substance use and/or historical exposure to violence (all 57%). There were 15 older adult family violence (FV) homicide victims, eight that were previously victims of the homicide offender, primarily enduring emotional, physical and psychological violence as well as the perpetrator assaulting another family member. Seven older adults had perpetrated FV against their offender. Conclusions The history of violence perpetration in the deceased and mental health factors in their offender, as well as the greater proportion of parent-child and other familial relationships offer interesting focal points for future prevention research.

The Judicial Interpretation of Intimate Partner Homicide in China: An Empirical Analysis of Sentencing Practice Between 2016 and 2021.

In recent years, China has endeavored to implement individualized sentencing for cases of intimate partner homicide (IPH), using both legal and extralegal factors, to protect potential female victims and female defendants. This study examines the factors influencing the sentencing of IPH, utilizing a sample comprising 921 cases from 2016 to 2021 on the China Judgments Online website. The results show that: (1) the legal factor "victim's fault" is the main reason for the leniency of sentencing for female defendants compared to male defendants; and (2) intimate partner relationships between defendants and victims can have a protective effect on sentencing.

Forensic entomology in homicide cases: study of a corpse found inside a buried vehicle.

Forensic entomology plays a crucial role in death investigations, particularly in estimating the postmortem interval (PMI). This study presents a forensic entomology case involving a corpse found in a buried utility vehicle. The victim was in an advanced state of decomposition, with autopsy findings revealing gunshot wounds. Cadaveric fauna was collected at the scene and during the autopsy. The analysis revealed a diverse insect community, with predominance of Compsomyiops fulvicrura and Piophila casei. The time of development of species like Dermestes maculatus and Necrobia rufipes was used to estimate the minimum PMI. The presence and low abundance of Calliphora vicina, a species preferring lower temperatures, shed light on the seasonal conditions at the time of death and suggested possible body concealment shortly after death. This research is the first to report insects as evidence in a corpse found in a buried vehicle and contributes to the body of knowledge in forensic entomology. The study also suggests that the use of entomological evidence can provide additional information about the season in which the body was concealed, making it a valuable tool in death investigation and crime scene reconstruction. Finally, it emphasizes the need for proper sampling, expert identification, and close collaboration between forensic entomologists and pathologists.

Homicidal Strangulation: An Integrative Review of Perpetrator Characteristics

ABSTRACT Strangulation is one of the deadliest forms of violence. Yet, a gap exists in literature reviews specific to homicidal strangulation. Thus, this integrative review assesses and synthesizes empirical knowledge on strangulation’s relation to perpetrator pattern and typology in homicide cases. Based on an electronic search of six databases, 10 studies meeting criteria for inclusion were reviewed. These studies demonstrate strangulation is a gendered form of violence, highly prevalent in intimate partner violence, and connected with sexual violence and spontaneous domestic homicide. Variability between studies is also discussed, along with implications for policy, practice, and future research.

Exploring Extreme Violence: Forensic and Psychiatric Analysis of Overkill and Brutal Homicide Cases in Türkiye

ABSTRACT The objective is to compare the characteristics of individuals involved in homicides with (OBH) and without overkill and brutal features (NBH) assessed by the Council of Forensic Medicine. In the OBH group, female victims and child and adolescent victims were significantly higher. Significantly elevated usage of piercing and cutting instruments was noted in the OBH group. Homicides with overkilling and brutal features – representing the ultimate manifestation of violent homicide cases – exhibiting distinctive features that contrast with typical characteristics of general homicides. These acts are frequently motivated by jealousy and hostility, transcending the mere act of killing.

Delayed neurological complication of organophosphate intoxication

Organophosphate are one of the most commonly used pesticide in India and across the global, because of easy accessibility it is often misused as homicidal and suicidal cases that carry high rate of mortality and morbidity. It often affects the body by acting on synaptic cleft and interfere acetylcholine present inside the clefts. Early manifestation includes the increased secretion across the body with decrease heart rate. Here we had a case series of patients presented with delayed neurological complication of organophosphorus compounds (OPC).

Harmony in Dispute: The Role of Anywaa's Traditional Institutions in Conflict Resolution

This paper explores the traditional institutions and conflict resolution mechanisms among the Anywaa community, shedding light on their intricate structures and practices. The Anywaa people, located in Ethiopia and South Sudan, have developed indigenous governance systems centered on institutions such as Nyieya (nobleship), Kwaaro (headmanship), and the spiritual leadership of Nyibur, along with family councils. These institutions play vital roles in maintaining social order and resolving conflicts within the community. The study elucidates the processes of conflict resolution, involving mediation by various officials and councils within the traditional governance system. Whether dealing with inter-village disputes, intra-village conflicts, or homicide cases, the Anywaa employ a combination of customary practices and indigenous knowledge to address conflicts effectively. The involvement of neutral parties underscores the community's commitment to fair and just resolution processes. Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of compensation and purification rituals in restoring harmony and reconciliation within the community. Through restitution and traditional ceremonies, the Anywaa aim to mend relationships and reintegrate offenders back into society, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and community cohesion. Overall, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of indigenous governance systems and their relevance in contemporary society. By documenting the intricate workings of traditional institutions and conflict resolution practices among the Anywaa people, the research underscores the importance of preserving and respecting indigenous knowledge for sustainable peace and social cohesion in diverse cultural contexts.

A retrospective study of 29 fatal cases of insulin overdose

PurposeTo summarize recent cases of fatal insulin poisoning both domestically and internationally, thereby offering valuable insights for the forensic identification of insulin overdose cases. MethodsLiterature published since 2000 on fatal insulin overdose were systematically searched and screened. Data encompassing variables such as year, age, sex, cause of death, scene conditions, occupations, medical histories of victims and perpetrators, autopsy timing, dosage and administration methods, forensic pathology, and toxicological analysis, were compiled for rigorous statistical analysis. ResultsAmong the 29 fatal cases of insulin poisoning, suicides and homicides accounted for 55.2 % and 41.4 %, respectively. Precisely 34.5 % of victims or perpetrators were associated with the medical industry, 27.6 % had diabetes, and 24.1 % had mental illnesses such as depression. Intravenous injection resulted in quicker death than did subcutaneous injection. In some cases, immunohistochemical staining of insulin and protamine at injection sites yielded positive results. The average molar ratio of insulin to C-peptide in post-mortem blood was 13.76 ± 5.167, indicating a significant diagnostic value for insulin poisoning. ConclusionAssessment of cases of fatal insulin overdose should be thorough, incorporating case investigation, scene examination, medical records review, autopsy findings, pathological examinations, and laboratory tests, alongside considering the condition of the body and timing of death autopsy. Using mass spectrometry to detect insulin proves valuable, particularly in cases of poor body preservation.

PROOF OF THE CRIME OF MURDER REGARDLESS OF THE USE OF FORENSIC AUTOPSY EVIDENCE (Kendari District Court Study)

In essence, evidence in criminal cases is an effort to provide evidence through tools that can prove a case and its allegations, one of which is forensic autopsy evidence which is used as evidence. In fact, forensic autopsy evidence is very important in criminal homicide cases because it can confirm a person's death carried out by a forensic autopsy expert and speed up the court process. The aim is to prove the KUHAP evidentiary system through forensic evidence, and determine the value of forensic evidence in murder, and use it as expert testimony, this is also used as a basis for the judge's decision against the defendant. The research carried out is empirical legal research using an empirical approach from secondary data by managing primary, secondary and tertiary legal materials. Based on the research results, first we have to know that every country definitely has laws or regulations that apply in each country. As in murder cases, if witness statements are not always correct, judges really need forensic autopsy evidence as expert testimony, and it is rare to find witnesses who directly witnessed the crime of murder, and this becomes an obstacle for judges. Then in murder cases, many families do not want to have a forensic autopsy done. The meaning of a forensic autopsy is to find the true case and look for the causes that caused the person's death. Then, for clues and truth, a forensic autopsy must be carried out to achieve justice.

Masculinities and violence against feminilities in criminal cases of homicides in Irati-PR, 1899-1930

Este artigo tem como objetivo principal discutir as masculinidades delineadas pelo poder judiciário em processos-crimes de homicídios, autuados durante a Primeira República em Irati-PR. Utilizando os referidos registros criminais sob guarda do Centro de Documentação e Memória da Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná, focalizamos casos em que os réus foram acusados de assassinar ou ferir mulheres. A pesquisa visa compreender as motivações desses fatos, examinando os discursos apresentados aos julgadores, especialmente à luz das considerações teóricas de Stephen M. Whitehead. A análise dos casos revela que os acusados frequentemente cometeram os assassinatos em resposta a situações que feriam sua honra, notadamente em momentos de traição matrimonial, recusa em reatar laços de convivência e provocação de aborrecimentos pelas vítimas. Ao justificarem tais atos perante a justiça, os advogados comumente recorreram ao argumento da completa privação/perturbação dos sentidos dos réus, uma estratégia que encontrou aceitação no Tribunal do Júri, indicando uma afinidade de valores entre o Tribunal do Júri e os acusados. Concluímos que a violência contra mulheres era legitimada discursivamente, contribuindo para a consolidação de relações de gênero assimétricas.

Qualities of Mercy: Capital Punishment and the Royal Prerogative in Familial Cases in the Chosŏn Records of Adjudications (Simnirok)

This article examines how royal mercy is articulated in homicide cases involving the family in the Records of Adjudications (Simnirok), a collection of over one thousand capital offenses reviewed by King Chŏngjo (r. 1776–1800) of Chosŏn Korea (1392–1910). Simni (“adjudications”) review comprised case memorials by provincial and metropolitan authorities and the royal judgments written in response to them. It was the king’s prerogative to endorse or commute any death sentence issued by officials below, and Chŏngjo’s judgments often find grounds for leniency. Previous studies of the Simnirok have examined the collection in light of late Chosŏn jurisprudence and social history, but have rarely subjected the narrative constructions and discursive strategies of the king with respect to highly contentious facts to close analysis. By examining select cases in the Simnirok involving domestic battery, adultery, and filial vengeance, this article examines how the “truth” behind each case and its legal implications are contextualized, constructed, or contested in view of orthodox values that are often patriarchal, and how Chŏngjo’s judgments project the persona of a benevolent and circumspect Confucian sage ruler who grants mercy largely within the bounds of the law.