Importance of Autopsy Report and Evidence Preservation in Judicial Conviction: An Illustration in a Rape and Murder Case
Journal Title: Journal of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology - Year 2018, Vol 4, Issue 2
Abstract
Autopsy examination includes external examination of body including injury description, internal examination, formulating opinion regarding cause of death and time since death. This is associated with evidence preservation, sealing and handing over to investigating officer for further analysis. Though this protocol of autopsy examination is well known to Autopsy surgeons, but they do not realize its importance during Judicial Proceedings. The authors report a case where careful evidence preservation during autopsy acted as a major ground in the conviction of accused and description of injuries aided in the decision of the quantum of Punishment. This case highlights the importance of even minor findings of the Autopsy report and their interpretation and correlation with the circumstances later on during the course of trial. The autopsy report can play a pivotal role in deciding the guilt of the accused and quantum of the Judgment, so they should be written with utmost precaution while maintaining highest unbiased scientific standards.
Authors and Affiliations
Abhishek Yadav
Keywords
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- EP ID EP565742
- DOI 10.21088/jfct.2454.9363.4218.5
- Views 82
- Downloads 0
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