Forensic Investigations of Clandestine Burials Using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Locating clandestine graves is a challenging task for forensic science and criminal investigations. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a commonly used technique for this purpose, but its effectiveness for detecting graves deeper than 0.9 m has not been extensively studied. This research investigates the capability of GPR in detecting graves over 0.9 m in depth by burying six pig carcasses in various covering states at depths of 1.0 m and 1.3 m. Data was collected using two antenna frequencies (500 MHz and 800 MHz) for three months. The findings revealed that plastic-wrapped pigs produced strong responses in both 1.0 and 1.3 m graves throughout the study period with both antenna frequencies. Uncovered pigs produced discernible peaks for the first two months and taint peaks in the third month. The analysis of the reflection profiles indicated that 500 MHz antenna frequency produced distinct responses for all burial scenarios, particularly the graves with plastic- and cloth-wrapped pigs. Furthermore, graves of 1.3 m depth can be detected using GPR with 500 MHz and 800 MHz antenna frequencies. This study suggests that GPR is a promising tool for locating clandestine graves, but its effectiveness is influenced by burial-specific factors especially the clothing or covering of the body.