The primary purpose of ligature in criminal investigations is closely associated with the act of strangling an individual. In forensic contexts, ligatures are often used as tools to constrict the neck, leading to asphyxiation or other forms of fatal injury. When examining a crime scene or investigating a death, the presence of ligature marks on a victim can indicate that strangulation occurred, which is critical in determining the cause of death.
Understanding this purpose is essential for investigators as they piece together the circumstances surrounding a death, helping to establish the manner of death and potentially identify a suspect. In cases of strangulation, the type of ligature, its location on the victim's body, and any associated injuries can provide vital clues and evidence for the investigation.