Forensics Journal - Stevenson University 2012 | Page 26

STEVENSON UNIVERSITY

samples found on the scene by investigators, or by an educated estimation determined by the victim’s race, gender, and/or ethnic background. Information provided by the Forensic Anthropologist and
other professionals are also used. All procedures are documented and
working notes collected. This method has also been tried and proven
over the years. Benefits of this method over the clay reconstruction
are cost and completion time.

FIGURE 5: Sketch and Photo of Richard Allen Davis (Ramsland,
n.d.(a))

THE ART OF FACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
Forensic art also includes forensic facial approximation. This process
of facial reconstruction is difficult. In cases of severely decomposed or
completely skeletonized remains, a facial reconstruction on the skull
is one option that is used to assist with identification of unknown
remains. Reconstruction is often the last resort in the identification