Bite Mark Analysis in Forensic Investigations: a Comprehensive Critical Review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Bite mark analysis occupies a unique and contentious position within forensic science, representing both a historically signicant identication method and a cautionary tale about the need for scientic rigor in forensic disciplines. This comprehensive review traces the evolution of bite mark evidence from its ancient origins through its heyday in late 20th century criminal investigations to its current status as a heavily scrutinized methodology. We examine the anatomical foundations of bite mark analysis, classication systems, standardized protocols, and the growing body of research challenging its fundamental assumptions. While bite mark evidence played prominent roles in landmark cases like the Ted Bundy trial, modern forensic science has revealed signicant limitations in its reliability and validity. The review concludes with an evidence-based assessment of current best practices and future directions, emphasizing the need for either substantial methodological reform or replacement with more scientically validated techniques.
Institution: Government of Kerala
Language: English
Subfield: Archeology
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414710768
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