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Forensic Expert Outlines Backyard Excavation

Wednesday, 23 May 2012 07:35

Four pits, 40 to 60 centimetres deep uncovered the remains of Clifford Fair, and other evidence in his alleged murder. The Forensic Anthropologist that recovered the body testified at the murder trial of John Robinson today. Dr. Michael Spence is one of 6 experts in Ontario able to perform such a recovery. The four areas were found by examining patterns in the ground, cadaver dogs and other tools. An delicate archeological excavation of those sites took place over a 3-day period between November 13th and 15th of 2008. The largest and most complex area turned up the torso and legs of Clifford Fair. The legs were still clothed in pants, a belt and boxer shorts and were bent in an awkward manner. A cloth and lighter were also found buried in that pit, 64-centimetres beneath the surface. Another area of interest turned up Fair's head and neck. Dr. Spence also testified that there was the presence of lime in this pit, around the right side of Fair's head. Dr. Spence says lime is often used to cover up smells. Another dig site turned up an empty bag of lime, two rubber gloves, directions from a box of tampax and a towel. A fourth excavated area turned up track pants, a jacket, socks and running shoes and a purple towel. The forensic team was unable to locate Fair's arms. Dr. Spence and Woodstock Police would later bring in a backhoe to further excavate the yard, and they located Fair's arms on November 23rd, 2008. Robinson's trial continues with the Crown expected to wrap up its witnesses by the end of the week.

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