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Biomedical subjects

G L Vale

Publications and source records attributed to G L Vale.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Dentistry, bite marks and the investigation of crime.

Bite-mark evidence has become accepted as a powerful tool in the investigation of crime. Human bite marks are found most frequently in cases of murder, rape, child abuse or altercation. When they contain sufficient detail, bite marks may be used to establish the identity of the biter. This article presents cases in which bite marks have provided major evidence in homicide investigations. In addition, all dentists should be familiar with the appearance of bite marks because they may be a primary sign of child abuse.

Adult

Forensic dentistry in the Cerritos air disaster.

On Aug 31, 1986, 82 people were killed in the worst air disaster in the history of Los Angeles International Airport. The Los Angeles County Forensic Dentistry Team worked with the Medical Examiner-Coroner's Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other agencies during the identification process. The investigation demonstrated the importance of involving forensic anthropologists and forensic dentists along with investigative agencies in the at-scene search for evidence at disaster sites.

Accidents, Aviation

Anatomical distribution of human bite marks in a series of 67 cases.

A study was made of the anatomical distribution of human bite marks, as well as their distribution by age of victim and type of crime involved. Bite marks in this study occurred primarily in sex-related crimes, child abuse cases, and cases involving other types of physical altercations. Bite marks were found on virtually all areas of the body, with more than one bite mark on 40% of the victims. Female victims were most commonly bitten on the breasts, arms, and legs, while male victims were most commonly bitten on the arms and shoulders.

Adolescent

Unusual three-dimensional bite mark evidence in a homicide case.

A comparison has been made between bite marks observed on the nose of a female homicide victim and the configuration of the dental structures of a male suspect. The victim's bite marks showed a number of demonstrable characteristics which could be reproduced by models of the dentition of the suspect. Special peculiarities within and between individual teeth, together with the upper and lower jaw relationship, were demonstrably consistent with the bite mark patterns on the victim's nose. Detailed examination of the scientific evidence led the dental investigators to the conclusion that there was a positive match between the suspect's dentition and the bite mark on the decedent's nose. The dental investigation and subsequent dental testimony were prime factors leading to the defendant's conviction of manslaughter in the first case in California involving the major use of bite mark evidence.

Bites and Stings