Forensic Reconstruction PHDETDC Methodology and Forensic Taphonomy Experiment Applied in a High-Profile Case for the First Time in Chile

Following the scientific forensic reconstruction methodology and its application in criminal cases helps to avoid wrongful convictions. It provides a critical guideline to the classification of the case, such as from suicide to homicide, which unfortunately happens all the time. Usually, it is because of bias in the investigation.

This methodology is an update of the method published in 2009 by Ross Gardner and Tom Bevel in their book Practical Crime Scene Analysis and Reconstruction. This methodology consists of six steps: Problem, Data, Hypothesis, Expectation, Test, and Conclusion. However, after applying this methodology in several criminal cases and in the classroom, I felt that it needed an update. Although it is a good method, I have learned that they need a new step where the forensic expert can express and discuss their professional opinion before concluding. This new methodology is PHD ETDC, meaning Problem, Hypothesis, Data, Expectations, Test, Discussion, and Conclusions.