Abstract

DE LAS MERCEDES RODRIGUEZ, Lizbeth. The importance of forensics in the handling of corpses during civilian protection tasks in Mexico. Rev. Crim. [online]. 2013, vol.55, n.3, pp.337-350. ISSN 1794-3108.

Fast response and coordinated care are required from the authorities in charge of civilian protection actions in the face of any catastrophic event resulting in the death of a number of victims. Field criminalistics and identification systems can be seen as auxiliary disciplines in the handling and identification of corpses after the occurrence of disaster situations and, in turn, they may provide valid criteria disputing the assumption that dead bodies pose a public health hazard. By using a strategic post-care plan launched by the Mexican Government as a basis, this article intends to examine outlines that should be followed by those responsible for civilian protection in the areas of casualty handling and identification after the occurrence. Some related concepts are briefly exposed from a forensic point of view showing the usefulness of including them in the legislation dealing with civilian protection in Mexico.

Keywords : Protection; casualty identification/corpse identification; forensics/criminalistics; disasters; public health.

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