Late discovery of bodies in indoor settings: A forensic practitioner’s view on recognizing cases of social isolation in eastern Attica, Greece

Abstract

The late discovery of a deceased is an observable phenomenon in urban centers and is highly associated with unaccompanied deaths. The aim of this study is to investigate the socio-demographic patterns and circumstances surrounding the late discovery of deceased individuals in indoor settings within urban areas, in Greece. The studied sample included 217 decomposing individuals discovered indoors in eastern Attica between the years 2012–2021. The majority of cases involved Greek males aged above 65, single, childless, and living alone. A history of illegal substance and alcohol abuse, psychiatric disorders and atypical behavior was recorded in some cases, however these represented the minority of the sample. The majority of bodies were discovered inside their permanent homes by relatives or neighbors at the stage of early decomposition within a month of their death. Manner of death was in most cases natural. Statistically significant associations between the examined variables were noted. Differences in the death circumstances between individuals with and without socially reprehensible behaviors were illuminated. Ultimately, the study seeks to identify risk factors leading to social disengagement and contribute to the development of protective measures against this phenomenon.