Bugs & Bones: Forensic Examination of Entomology & Anthropology

** Optional American Board of Forensic Entomology (ABFE) Technician Certificate. Must take and pass exam to be held of Friday, August 7, 2026 (half day). There is an additional $50 fee paid directly to the ABFE. More information will be available after registration. **

This workshop provides attendees with training on how to observe, collect, package and ship insect and skeletal evidence for analysis in an investigation. Attendees will also examine insects, human and non-human skeletal material and will learn about the decomposition process. Case examples will be discussed to explain how forensic entomology and forensic anthropology are used in investigations from scene to court. All attendees will complete a mock scene to practice and demonstrate their understanding of proper protocols for the collection and packaging of evidence.

This program provides training for Medicolegal Death Investigators, Coroners, Medical Examiners, Law Enforcement, Crime Scene Investigators and Forensic Scientists. If you have any questions about whether you qualify, please contact the Education Committee.

Info: Introductions & Overview;
Forensic Entomology History and Applications;
Entomological Basics;
Forensically Relevant Insects Associated with Decomposition;
Overview of Insect Collection and Kit Explanation;
Field: Initial Observations of Carcasses & Collection Technique Demonstration;
Lab: Examination and Identification of Insects;
Lecture: Biology of Adults & Larvae;
Field/Lab: Mock Scene: Collection and Packaging of Insect Evidence, Prepare for Shipping;
Lecture and Lab: Human v. Non-human Bone;
Lecture and Lab: Aging and Sexing Skeletal Material;
Field/Lab: Mock Scene: Collection and Recovery, Skeletal Material;
Decomposition & Scavenging;
Trauma and Skeletal Analysis;
Case Examples in Forensic Entomology;
Case Examples in Forensic Anthropology

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office, 11001 Cedar Ave, Cleveland, United States

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