Evaluation of gendarmerie forensic entomology kit for crime scene investigations

Forensic entomology is the scientific study of insect biology that helps to figure out the estimation of the time since death, manner of death (poisoning), the place of death (transportation) and the cause of death. Crime scene investigators or forensic entomologists must know how to use forensic entomology kits and gather entomological evidence at crime scene an accurate way as well as recognise insect fauna at crime scenes in order to be able to use entomological evidence in judicial proceedings. In our country, the law enforcement agencies are not aware of the importance of entomological evidence as much as required. One of the most important reasons for this problem is the unavailability of forensic entomology kits at crime scene investigation units or the lack of knowledge how to use them. This study aimed to test the usability of the gendarmerie forensic entomology kits, to identify and discover the needs of improvements as well as provide the guidance to the crime scene investigators in terms of using the kits. To achieve this aim, entomological samples taken on the carcass of Oryctolagus cuniculus L.1758 (New Zealand White Rabbit) via the gendarmerie forensic entomology kits during thirty days. As a result of the research, it has been demonstrated the properties and the needs of improvements of the kits and also provided the guidance related to using them according to their using purposes. With this study, crime scene investigators will be able to gather entomological evidence and move them in accurate way.