@article{ref1,
title="Detecting submerged bodies: controlled research using side-scan sonar to detect submerged proxy cadavers",
journal="Journal of forensic sciences",
year="2015",
author="Healy, Carrie A. and Schultz, John J. and Parker, Kenneth and Lowers, Bim",
volume="60",
number="3",
pages="743-752",
abstract="Forensic investigators routinely deploy side-scan sonar for submerged body searches. This study adds to the limited body of literature by undertaking a controlled project to understand how variables affect detection of submerged bodies using side-scan sonar. Research consisted of two phases using small and medium-sized pig (Sus scrofa) carcasses as proxies for human bodies to investigate the effects of terrain, body size, frequency, swath width, and state of decomposition. <br><br>RESULTS demonstrated that a clear, flat, sandy pond floor terrain was optimal for detection of the target as irregular terrain and/or vegetation are major limitations that can obscure the target. A higher frequency towfish was preferred for small bodies, and a 20 m swath width allowed greater visibility and easier maneuverability of the boat in this environment. Also, the medium-sized carcasses were discernable throughout the 81-day study period, indicating that it is possible to detect bodies undergoing decomposition with side-scan sonar.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0022-1198",
doi="10.1111/1556-4029.12671",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1556-4029.12671"
}