Decomposition Analysis
The Decomposition Database is a forensic resource built from more than 3,000 medico-legal cases, each documenting observable decay traits alongside the environmental and scene variables that shaped them. These reference cases span all stages of decomposition and include known post-mortem intervals, allowing investigators to compare an unknown case against real.vorld patterns rather than relying solely on theoretical models.
For UK homicide investigations, this provides detectives with an evidence-based way to test whether a reported timeline is credible, assess whether a body has been moved, and understand how temperature, humidity, clothing, or body position may have accelerated or slowed decay. By systematically recording searching and comparing case data, the database strengthens estimations - often a critical factor in corroborating or challenging alibis - and supports clearer investigative decision-making in complex or contested circumstances.