What to Do If You Discover Human Bones or Unmarked Graves on Your Property
Discovering human bones or unmarked graves on your property can be a shock and an overwhelming experience. It is important to approach the situation with caution and understanding to ensure the safety and preservation of any potential evidence. This article provides guidance on how to handle this serious matter to prevent any legal, moral, or ethical issues.
1. Immediate Safety Measures
Your first priority should be the safety of yourself, your family, and other individuals on the property. If you come across human remains or unmarked graves, do not touch the site. Taking any actions, especially digging into or disturbing the area, can lead to logistical nightmares, including the destruction of evidence or the creation of a potential crime scene.
2. Reporting to Local Law Enforcement
The proper and safest way to handle a find of this nature is to contact your local police department. Law enforcement has the resources and expertise to assess the situation and take appropriate action. Reporting the discovery will trigger a systematic process designed to protect and preserve the site until further investigation can occur.
3. Expertise and Forensics
Your local police, upon receiving the report, will usually be able to summon a forensic team, which may include experts in archaeology, anthropology, and forensic science. These professionals will assess the find and determine whether the remains are human, and if the graves are from a modern or historical period.
It is crucial to allow these experts to carry out their work without interference. Subjecting the site to unauthorized investigations can lead to the degradation of evidence, which can have significant legal and forensic ramifications.
4. Legal and Ethical Considerations
Discovering human remains or unmarked graves can pose numerous legal and ethical challenges. Violating the scene without proper authorization can result in criminal charges, fines, or even imprisonment. It is imperative to handle the situation within the bounds of the law to avoid personal liability and protect the integrity of the site.
5. Coordinating with Relevant Authorities and Community Resources
Depending on the nature and historical significance of the find, additional authorities and community resources may need to be involved. This can include the county or state coroner’s office, historic preservation groups, and legal experts. These groups can provide support, advice, and, in certain cases, manage the investigation.
Conclusion
Discovering human bones or unmarked graves on your property is a serious matter that requires a systematic and cautious approach. Contacting law enforcement and allowing trained professionals to handle the situation is essential for ensuring the protection of any evidence, preserving a potential crime scene, and adhering to legal and ethical standards.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that any evidence is properly preserved, that legal guidelines are followed, and that the site is managed responsibly. Ignoring or mishandling the situation can have severe legal and moral repercussions, making it vital to seek professional guidance and proceed with caution.