General Terminology

The people or person that may have seen an alleged suspect in passing. A forensic facial reconstruction of the alleged suspect may trigger the recollection of the casual audience, which may prompt them to contact the police.

The analysis of the structure of the skull to gauge the anatomy of the face to aid in forensic facial reconstruction. The structure of the skull and the face have an inherent predictable relationship that is complex but reliable for approximation.

A procedure that is used to approximate and recreate the facial features of an individual from their skeletal remains (by gauging the characteristics and measurements of the skull), a demographic profile, or detailed sketches. The procedure uses knowledge from many fields of science such as anatomy, anthropology, and osteology.

A method of forensic facial reconstruction that utilizes soft tissue thickness and facial muscles characteristics. This technique was developed in 1977 by Neave and is the most accepted method of forensic facial reconstruction.

Using DNA, radiological, odontological, and fingerprint comparisons alongside forensic facial reconstruction data to make an identification of skeletal remains.

The failure to exclude an individual when identifying remains with the use of forensic facial reconstruction.

Individuals that are actively searching for a known missing person.

The tissue that surrounds organs of the body to provide physical support and connections. This tissue is not consistent in its composition and thickness, which vary depending on the region in the body and individual.