CHAPTER Jus
2000 OFFICE OF CHIEF MEDICAL EXAMINER
PART Jus
2001 DEFINITIONS
Jus 2001.01 “Anthropology” means the scientific study of the
origin and physical, social, and cultural development and behavior of humans.
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Jus 2001.02 “Assistant deputy medical examiner (ADME)”
means a person appointed by the chief medical examiner pursuant to RSA 611:2,
II, to investigate deaths under the professional direction and supervision of
the chief medical examiner or the chief medical examiner’s designee.
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Jus 2001.03 “Autopsy report” means a document prepared by
the chief medical examiner, deputy chief medical examiner or designee after a
postmortem examination of the deceased has been conducted, which details the
findings made regarding the cause and manner of death after a postmortem
examination of the deceased has been conducted.
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Jus 2001.04 “Burial permit” means the permit issued by
the department of state, division of vital records administration, that allows
a dead body to be transported for purposes of burial or cremation.
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Jus 2001.05 “Chief medical examiner” (CME) means the
licensed physician certified by the American Board of Pathology as a qualified
pathologist and appointed pursuant to RSA 611-A:1, I, to investigate deaths and
supervise the office of chief medical examiner.
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Jus 2001.06 “Competent cause of death” means a determination
by a physician as to the specific injury, disease, or both that resulted in the
death of the deceased.
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Jus 2001.07 “Conjunctivae” means the mucus membranes that
line the eyelids and the exposed surface of the eyeballs.
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Jus 2001.08 “Cremains” means the ashes that remain after
the cremation of a body.
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Jus 2001.09 “Deputy chief medical examiner” (DCME) means
the licensed physician certified by the American Board of Pathology as a
qualified pathologist and appointed pursuant to RSA 611-A:1-a, to investigate
deaths under the professional direction and supervision of the chief medical
examiner and acts as the chief medical examiner whenever the latter is absent,
or unable to act from any cause.
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Jus 2001.10 “Deputy medical examiner” (DME) means a
licensed physician appointed pursuant to RSA 611:2, II, to investigate deaths
under the professional direction and supervision of the chief medical examiner.
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Jus 2001.11 “Edentulous” means the absence of teeth.
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Jus 2001.12 “Endocrine system” means a
collection of glands that produces the hormones that regulate metabolism,
growth, and sexual development.
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eff 7-14-07
Jus 2001.13 “Entomology” means the scientific study of
insects.
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Jus 2001.14 “Forensic pathology” means the branch of medicine
concerned with the scientific study of the nature of disease or injury and its
cause, processes, development, and consequences in the context of medicolegal
cases.
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Jus 2001.15 “Hepatobiliary system” means the liver, gall
bladder, and bile ducts.
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Jus 2001.16 “Histology” means the scientific study of the
microscopic structure of animal and plant tissues.
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Jus 2001.17 “Investigative report” means an official
document containing the observations made and information compiled by a medical
examiner in a medicolegal case as described in Jus 2005.01.
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Jus 2001.18 “Livor mortis” means discoloration on a dead
body due to the gravitational pooling of blood.
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Jus 2001.19 “Lividity” means a skin discoloration as from
livor mortis.
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Jus 2001.20 “Medical examiner (ME)” means any person
authorized pursuant to RSA 611 and RSA
611-A to investigate potential medicolegal cases.
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Jus 2001.21 “Pathologist” means a physician who practices
the branch of medicine concerned with the study of the nature of disease and its
cause, processes, development, and consequences.
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Jus 2001.22 “Medicolegal case” means a death in which the
circumstances of the death are known or suspected to meet the criteria
enumerated in RSA 611:3, II.
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Jus 2001.23 “Personal effects” means the possessions of
the deceased taken into possession by or at the direction of a medical examiner
in the investigation of a potential medicolegal case.
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Jus 2001.24 “Remains” means a dead human body. The term also includes any separate parts of
a dead human body.
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Jus 2001.25 “Rigor mortis” means the muscular stiffness
that occurs in bodies after death.
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Jus 2001.26 “Toxicology” means the scientific study of the
nature, effects, and detection of poisons and the treatment of poisoning.
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Jus 2001.28 “Vitreous” means the jellylike mass that
fills the cavity of the eyeball.
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PART Jus
2002 QUALIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATION, AND
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Jus 2002.01 Chief Medical Examiner. The CME shall meet the qualification
requirements set forth in RSA 611-A:1.
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Jus 2002.02 Deputy Chief Medical Examiner. The DCME shall meet the qualification
requirements set forth in RSA 611-A:1-a.
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Jus 2002.03 Deputy Medical Examiner. Each DME shall be a physician licensed
pursuant to RSA 328-D who has met the training requirements set forth in Jus
2002.05.
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Jus 2002.04 Assistant Deputy Medical Examiner.
(a)
Each ADME shall be skilled and knowledgeable in the science of medicine,
either through experience, training, or education.
(b) The CME shall
determine whether a candidate’s particular experience, training, or education
qualifies that person to serve as an ADME, in
conformance with RSA 611-A and the particular needs of the Office of the Chief
Medical Examiner (OCME). The CME shall consider individuals, including those
specified in (c), below, with forensic or clinical experience or previous
course work in forensics pertinent to the OCME’s needs, to be qualified to
serve as an ADME, including those specified in (c), below.
(c)
The CME shall consider the following individuals to be qualified to
serve as an ADME, provided that they are in good standing with the respective
licensing authority and meet the other criteria specified herein:
(1) Registered nurses, including advanced
registered nurse practitioners, licensed pursuant to RSA 326-B;
(2) Physician assistants licensed pursuant to RSA
328-D;
(3) Emergency medical technicians (EMT) licensed
at any level pursuant to RSA 153-A;
(4) Chiropractors licensed pursuant to RSA 316-A;
and
(5) Dentists licensed pursuant to RSA 317-A.
(d)
Regardless of the type of skill and knowledge possessed by the
candidate, no person shall be appointed as an ADME until that person has met
the death investigation training requirements set forth in Jus 2002.05 or an
equivalent training program from another jurisdiction as determined by the CME
or DCME.
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Jus 2002.05 Death Investigation
Training.
(a)
Prior to appointment as a DME or an ADME, each candidate shall complete
the training in death investigation provided through the OCME or an equivalent
training program from another jurisdiction as determined by the CME or
DCME. The training shall be both
didactic and clinical in form and shall be given during a minimum of 55 hours
of instruction and shall be provided at no charge to candidates. The
CME or DCME shall excuse a DME candidate from any portion of the training if it
is determined by the CME or DCME that the candidate has already received the
equivalent training from another Source.
(b)
The didactic component of the death investigation training shall cover
the following topics:
(1) Jurisdiction and authority of the OCME;
(2) Scene investigation and processing of
physical evidence;
(3) Sharp and blunt impact injury;
(4) Asphyxia;
(5) Firearm injuries;
(6) Suicide;
(7) Pediatric forensic pathology;
(8) Deaths from fire or explosion;
(9) Mass fatality incidents;
(10) Motor vehicle fatalities;
(11) Blood-borne pathogens;
(12) Basic toxicology;
(13) Identification of remains;
(14) Examination of dead bodies and postmortem
changes;
(15) Death certification;
(16) Documentation and chain of custody;
(17) Domestic violence and elder abuse;
(18) Sudden natural death including maternal
deaths;
(19) Forensic photography; and
(c)
The clinical component of the death investigation training shall:
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Jus 2002.06 Certification.
(a)
After full attendance and completion of the didactic training component,
and accumulation of the requisite clinical experiences, the CME shall certify
the selected candidate as either a DME or ADME, consistent with the education,
training and experience of the candidate.
(b)
For purposes of RSA 611:9, any dentist licensed pursuant to RSA 317-A
shall be deemed qualified to perform a dental examination of a dead body when
such has been requested by any medical examiner.
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Jus 2002.07 List of Deputy Medical Examiners and
Assistant Deputy Medical Examiners.
(a)
On an annual basis the OCME shall provide to the following persons and
entities a written list of each appointed DME or ADME expected to conduct
investigations in the jurisdiction of that person or entity:
(b)
The OCME shall provide written notification to the affected persons or
entities listed in (a) above upon the appointment of each new DME or ADME or
the withdrawal of appointment of any DME or ADME.
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Jus 2002.08 Examination of Samples.
(a)
The following existing state facilities shall be considered to be
qualified, pursuant to RSA 611-A:1, II(c), for the purpose of conducting
testing, examination, or analysis of samples collected in a death investigation:
(1) The laboratories of the department of health
and human services;
(2) The laboratories of the department of safety;
(3) The laboratories of the department of
environmental services;
(4) The laboratories within the university system
of
(5) Any other public or private in-state facility
that is accredited by the relevant
generally recognized accrediting body, depending on the type of
facility.
(b)
If no qualified in-state
facility is available, samples shall be sent to an out-of-state facility, that
is accredited by the relevant generally recognized accrediting body,
depending on the type of facility.
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PART Jus
2003 SUPERVISION AND DUTIES OF MEDICAL
EXAMINERS
Jus 2003.01 General Supervision.
(a)
The CME shall, pursuant to RSA 611-A:1, provide professional direction
and supervision to the DCME and all medical examiners.
(b)
The DCME shall, pursuant to RSA 611-A:1-a, provide professional
direction and supervision to all medical examiners in the absence of the CME or
when the CME is unable to act for any cause.
(c)
The CME shall, pursuant to RSA 611-A:2, appoint an individual to be the
acting chief medical examiner when the chief medical examiner and the deputy
chief medical examiner are absent or unable to act in their official
capacities. Such acting chief medical
examiner shall meet the qualifications set forth in RSA 611-A:2, and the
appointment shall be made in writing.
(d)
The CME and DCME shall, pursuant to RSA 611-A:1 and RSA 611-A:1-a,
respectively, serve for specific terms of 5 years and until a successor is
appointed and has qualified, unless removed from office pursuant to RSA
4:1. All other medical examiners shall,
pursuant to RSA 611:2, serve at the pleasure of the CME.
(e)
Medical examiners shall be authorized to act anywhere in
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Jus 2003.02 Duties of Medical Examiners.
(a)
Pursuant to RSA 611:3, it shall be the duty of each medical examiner,
having taken the oath of office, to make investigations in medicolegal
cases. A medicolegal case shall exist when
death is pronounced or remains are found indicating that a human has died and
that death is known or suspected to involve one or more of the circumstances
enumerated in RSA 611:3, II.
(b)
In undertaking a death investigation, each medical examiner shall:
(1) Comply with Jus 2000 and any direction
provided by the CME, DCME, or designee when acting as CME, regardless of
whether such direction is provided in writing, orally, electronically, or
through any other means; and
(2) Conduct the investigation in such a way as to
preserve the scientific and legal integrity of the investigation.
(c) Once the medical examiner
has completed the death investigation, the medical examiner shall report the
findings to the CME, DCME, or designee and make a recommendation as to whether
an autopsy should be conducted.
(d)
An ME who is a licensed physician may determine the cause of death and,
after consultation with the CME or DCME and in compliance with RSA 5-C:62,
certify that determination on the death certificate. An ME who is not a licensed physician may
certify on a death certificate the cause of death as determined by the CME or
DCME or designee, after consultation with that person, noting the date and time
of consultation.
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PART Jus
2004 DEATH INVESTIGATIONS
Jus 2004.01 Investigation Prior to Cremation or Burial
at Sea.
(a)
When remains are intended to be cremated or buried at sea, the
responding ME shall investigate the death as set forth in this section.
(b)
Prior to the release of the remains for cremation or burial at sea,
“Cremation Certification” form ME-6, as described in Jus 2005.06, shall be
completed to document examination of the remains.
(c)
If the responding ME determines that no further investigation is
necessary, the responding ME shall release the remains for cremation or burial
at sea. Remains that will be cremated
shall be subject to the requirements of RSA 325-A:18, including the requisite
burial and OCME certificates, and, unless an exemption is granted, the 48-hour
waiting period commencing at the time of death.
(d)
The OCME shall grant an exemption pursuant to (c) above if:
(1) The ME has determined, after consultation
with the CME or DCME, that no further investigation is necessary; and
(2) The reason for the request is based on the
fact that the deceased died due to a contagious or infectious disease.
(e)
If the responding ME determines that further investigation is necessary,
investigation shall proceed as otherwise set forth in Jus 2004.
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Jus 2004.02 Initiation
of Death Investigation. A potential
medicolegal case shall commence when a local law enforcement
agency or a health care facility has discovered, or has been contacted
regarding the discovery of remains under circumstances that appear to fall
within those enumerated in RSA 611:3.
The local law enforcement agency or health care facility shall then contact
the ME primarily on call in that geographical area. The ME shall make a determination as to
whether a viewing of the body will be necessary for the purpose of the
investigation required pursuant to RSA 611:3, II. If the ME determines that such a viewing is
necessary, the ME shall either, as soon as practicable, respond to the scene or
where the deceased is located or arrange for response by another ME.
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Jus 2004.03 OCME Acceptance or Declination of
Jurisdiction.
(a)
The ME who has been contacted shall investigate the potential case to
determine whether the OCME shall accept or decline jurisdiction. The investigation shall consist of, at a
minimum, a telephone consultation with the reporting agency. If necessary, the ME shall confer with the
CME or DCME for the purpose of receiving direction specific to the potential
case.
(b)
The OCME shall decline jurisdiction if the ME concludes from the information
obtained during the initial investigation either that the death does not fall
within one of the enumerated circumstances in RSA 611:3 or that the death falls
within one of those enumerated circumstances but the cause of death is clear
and there are no suspicious or unusual circumstances surrounding the
death. If jurisdiction is declined, the
ME shall so inform the reporting party and release the remains.
(c)
The OCME shall accept jurisdiction if the responding ME concludes that
any of the circumstances described in RSA 611:3, II apply or appear to apply to
the death being investigated and the cause or manner of death, or both, are not
clear.
(d) The responding ME shall confer
with the CME or DCME in every case in which jurisdiction is accepted. Such consultation shall be for the purpose of
receiving any further instruction related to the investigation.
(e)
If jurisdiction is accepted, and an autopsy will be performed, the responding
ME shall complete Form ME-5 “Identification Tag” as described in Jus 2005.06,
send it with the remains for autopsy, and arrange to have the remains
transported to the place where the autopsy will be performed.
(f)
If jurisdiction is accepted and no autopsy is deemed necessary, then the
responding ME shall release the body after completion of the external
examination and collection of samples.
(g) The responding ME shall document all decisions
and actions with respect to accepting or declining OCME jurisdiction by
completing the appropriate sections of Form ME-1 “DME/ADME Investigation
Report” as described in Jus 2005.01.
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Jus 2004.04 Preservation of the Scene.
(a)
Upon discovery of remains in a potentially medicolegal case, neither the
remains nor any personal effects or possible weapons in the immediate vicinity
of the remains shall be disturbed except as permitted by the responding ME.
(b)
Prior to moving remains or other evidence pursuant to (a), above, such
remains or other evidence shall be photographed or videotaped, including
digital imaging and other imaging processes.
If it is not possible to so photograph or videotape the remains or other
evidence, then the local law enforcement agency shall mark the position of the
remains or other evidence prior to movement.
(c)
Notwithstanding (a) above, the remains may be moved if the death:
(1) Did not occur in a medical facility and such
movement shall be solely to:
a. Prevent destruction or loss of the remains or
other evidence at the scene; or
b. Protect the health or safety of others; or
(2) Occurred in a medical facility and such
movement shall be to the morgue or other storage area, provided that:
a. The precipitating event that caused the death
did not occur at the site of death;
b. The remains were transported to the morgue or
other storage area in the same condition as when death occurred, except that
the facility may disconnect the remains from fixed medical equipment prior to
transport; and
c. The remains shall be made immediately
available for examination by the responding ME.
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Jus 2004.05 Examination of the Remains and Gathering
Evidence.
(a)
Upon arrival at the location of the remains, the ME shall take control
of the scene in coordination with the responding law enforcement agency so as
to preserve any evidence that might help to establish identity of the deceased,
the cause of death, and the manner of death.
(b)
The responding ME shall examine and document the condition of the
remains and the scene, as well as collecting applicable demographic and other
data regarding the deceased, using Form ME-1, “DME/ADME Investigation Report”
as described in Jus 2005.01.
(c)
Examination of the remains shall include, to the extent indicated for
the determination of the cause of death and manner of death or the preservation
of evidence, any of the following types of examination:
(1) Photographic or other imaging processes;
(2) Dental;
(3) Entomological; and
(4) Collection and preservation of tissue and
other samples from the remains.
(d) Personal Effects shall be processed as follows:
(1) If an autopsy is ordered, the responding ME shall
take into possession all personal effects and
any other items, other than medication, that are pertinent to the death
investigation. Such items shall be
vouchered, using Form ME-4 “Evidence or Property Inventory and Chain of
Custody” as described in Jus 2005.05.
Such items shall be placed in tamper proof evidence bags or containers
or, if the items are found on the body,
shall remain with the body and transported with it from the scene;
(2) If no autopsy is ordered, but the ME determines
that certain items or personal effects, other than medication,
are pertinent to a determination of the cause and manner of death, the ME shall
voucher the items on Form ME-4 and bag each item in a tamper proof evidence
bag. Such items shall be delivered to
the OCME as soon as possible after being taken in possession, but in no case
later than 72 hours;
(3) All other personal effects shall be vouchered
on a separate form and turned over to the next of kin, through the funeral
home, with the voucher form. Chain of
custody shall be maintained on all vouchered
items not turned over to the next of kin, so as to preserve the evidentiary
value of such items for use in any future legal proceeding; and
(4) The personal effects pertaining to unclaimed
bodies or unidentified remains shall be inventoried and released with the
remains.
(e) Medications
pertinent to the investigation shall taken into custody and vouchered using
Form ME-3 “Drug/Medication Inventory Form” as described in Jus 2005.04 and placed
in separate tamper proof evidence bags or containers
as follows:
(1) If the local law enforcement agency has not
already responded to the scene, the ME shall contact the agency and request
that an officer respond to assist in the inventory and securing of
medications. Once the officer arrives,
the ME shall inventory and voucher any medications being seized, in the
officer’s presence, using Form ME-3 “Drug/Medication Inventory Form.” The officer shall sign off as a witness on
the Drug/Medication Inventory Form, verifying that the inventory was done in
his or her presence. The ME shall seal
each container of medication with tamper evident tape provided by the
OCME. The completed form and the sealed
medication containers shall be placed in a sealed evidence bag;
(2) If it has been determined that an autopsy
will be performed on the body, the sealed container shall be placed in the body
bag, which shall also be sealed, for transportation to the morgue; and
(3) If no autopsy will be performed, the police
officer shall take custody of the sealed bag and deliver it to the police
department where it shall be maintained in a secure location.
(f)
To the extent necessary to establish the deceased’s identity, cause of
death, or manner of death, the following persons, if available and willing,
shall be interviewed by or at the direction of the responding ME:
(1) Each person known to be present
at the time of death;
(2) Each emergency responder or
other health care provider who provided potentially pertinent treatment, care,
or transport prior to or immediately after the death;
(3) Law enforcement and firefighting personnel
responding to the scene;
(4) Family members; and
(5) Any person who resided with
the deceased.
(g)
The responding ME shall consult with responding law enforcement and
emergency responders for the purpose of gathering their observations,
questions, and suggestions relevant to investigation of the deceased’s
identity, cause of death, and manner of death.
(h)
The responding ME shall display his/her official identification at all
times when at scenes.
(i)
The responding ME shall not allow any person to accompany the ME during
any phase of a death investigation or cremation investigation unless that person
has been given official OCME identification and authorized by the CME or DCME
to accompany the ME.
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Jus 2004.06 Identification. The responding ME shall investigate and, if
possible, establish the identity of the deceased using the following
methodology:
(a)
If a companion is present
who was familiar with the deceased prior to the time of incapacitation or
death, such companion’s identification of the deceased shall be presumed to be
correct;
(b)
If the deceased was alone but had photo identification in his or her
possession, and the photo identification resembles the deceased, the photo
identification shall be presumed be that of the deceased;
(c)
In all other circumstances that make identification under (a) or (b)
above not possible, the deceased shall be identified through other
scientifically sound methods as determined by the responding ME, including
without limitation any of the following:
(1) Visual and/or photographic identification of
the deceased by a person familiar with the deceased;
(2) Correspondence of scars and tattoos;
(3) Dental records;
(4) Fingerprints;
(5) Antemortem x-rays; and
(6) DNA typing.
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Jus 2004.07 Decision to Perform an Autopsy. The decision as to whether an autopsy will be
performed shall, pursuant to RSA 611:7, rest with the county attorney of the
county in which the remains were found, the attorney general, or the CME or the
CME’s designee.
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Jus 2004.08 Autopsy.
(a)
Examination of the remains shall be unrestricted and include, to the extent
indicated for the determination of the cause of death and manner of death or
the preservation of evidence, any of the following types of examination:
(1) External and internal;
(2) Photographic or any other imaging process;
(3) Dental;
(4) Radiological;
(5) Histological;
(6) Serological;
(7) Toxicological;
(8) Bacteriological;
(9) Virological;
(10) Chemical; and
(11) Any other methodology that might be helpful
in determining the cause or manner of death.
(b)
The following kinds of samples shall be obtained, upon specific request
of a law enforcement agency, from the bodies of those who are known or believed
to have been convicted, indicted, or suspected of physical or sexual assault:
(1) Fingerprint;
(2) Scalp, pubic, and beard hair; and
(3) Serological.
(c)
If possible, specimens obtained at autopsy for toxicological analysis,
if indicated, shall include:
(1) Blood;
(2) Urine;
(3) Bile;
(4) Vitreous;
(5) Gastric content; and
(6) Brain and liver tissue.
(d)
All body fluid and tissue samples obtained at autopsy shall be preserved
and stored in containers labeled with the following:
(1) The OCME case number;
(2) The name of the deceased, if known;
(3) The date of autopsy; and
(4) The initials
of the physician who performed the autopsy.
(e)
If possible, fingerprints, and to the extent
pertinent to a particular case, palm prints and sole prints, shall be
obtained from each:
(1) Victim of an apparent homicide;
(2) Person with one or more felony convictions,
upon request from a law enforcement agency;
(3) Person known or believed to have one or more
outstanding arrest warrants, upon request from a law enforcement agency; and
(4) Unidentified remains.
(f)
If the prints are obtained pursuant to (e), above, by someone from the
OCME, the OCME shall provide them to the state police and other investigating
law enforcement agencies for all relevant law enforcement purposes.
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Jus 2004.09 Autopsy Report.
(a)
The CME, DCME, or CME’s designee shall prepare a report detailing the
observations and findings for each autopsy performed. Such report shall indicate whether such
observations and findings are within normal limits for the individual organs or
anatomical structures and the forensic relevance of such observations and
findings.
(b)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain the
following general information and address the following issues, or attach the
following items:
(1) The case number;
(2) The following information about the deceased,
if known:
a. Name;
b. Age; and
c. Date of death;
(3) Date of pronouncement of death;
(4) Date of examination;
(5) The location and complete address of where
the autopsy was performed;
(6) The name and title of the person who
performed the autopsy;
(7) The name of the DME or ADME who performed the
scene investigation and the county in which it was performed;
(8) The name, title, and agency of each witness
present for the autopsy;
(9) How identity of the deceased was established;
(10) Whether photographs were taken or other
visual imaging processes were used at autopsy;
(11) A general description of how the body
appeared on first examination, including but not limited to:
a. Observations regarding clothing;
b. Presence of jewelry, including whether such
jewelry was on the body or vouchered and transported with the body;
c. A description of all other items vouchered
and transported with the body; and
d. Presence of therapeutic devices;
(12) The forensic significance of all items
transported with the body and each such item’s disposition.
(c)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a
description of the body, based upon external examination, that at a minimum
addresses the following:
(1) The apparent state of development and
nourishment;
(2) The apparent race;
(3) Whether appearance seems to be consistent
with known age;
(4) Its length and weight, and for infants and
toddlers the age-appropriate percentile for such measurements, including head,
chest, and abdominal circumference;
(5) Observations regarding rigor mortis and livor
mortis;
(6) Its relative temperature;
(7) The scalp hair color and length;
(8) For infants and toddlers, the presence or
absence of:
a. Icterus;
b. Edema;
c.
Cyanosis; and
d.
Lesions on the skin;
(9) Observations regarding the:
a.
Head, and for infants and toddlers, its circumference;
b.
Eyes;
c.
Ears;
d. Nose and mouth;
e.
Teeth, including natural teeth, dentures, or both;
f.
Neck;
g.
Chest and breasts, and for infants and toddlers, the circumference at
the nipples;
h.
The abdomen, and for infants and toddlers, the circumference at the
umbilicus; and
i.
External genitalia, anus and perineum;
(10) A description of any scars or tattoos;
(11) A description of any other surface features;
(12) A description of any therapeutic procedures;
and
(13) A description of any injuries to the:
a.
Head and neck;
b.
Trunk; and
c.
Extremities.
(d)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a complete
description, based upon internal examination, of the following organs, systems
and structures:
(1) The thoracic and abdominal organs, and body
cavities;
(2) Head and nervous system, including the weight
of the brain;
(3) The neck, including all structures and
organs, and for infants and toddlers, the weight of the thymus;
(4) The cardiovascular system, including the
coronary arterial system and heart, including the weight of the heart;
(5) The respiratory system, including the presence of any foreign material or
blockage and the lungs, including the weight of each lung;
(6) Liver and biliary system, including the
weight of the liver;
(7) The gastrointestinal system, including
stomach contents, and whether the appendix is present;
(8) The genitourinary system, including:
a. The kidneys and their weight;
b. The content of the urinary bladder;
c. For a male, the prostate gland and testes;
d. For a female, the:
1. Uterine cervix;
2. Uterus;
3. Vagina; and
4. Fallopian tubes and ovaries;
(9)
The endocrine system;
(10) The lymphoreticular
system, including the weight of the spleen; and
(11) The musculoskeletal system.
(e)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall describe all diagnostic
studies actually conducted and their results, including:
(1)
Chemical analysis of blood and body fluids;
(2)
Serologic analysis of blood;
(3)
Radiographs; and
(4)
Other laboratory or special studies.
(f)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a
summary of all findings of forensic significance.
(g)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a
conclusion, based upon the investigation and autopsy, setting forth an opinion as
to the mechanism, cause and manner of death.
(h)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a
statement setting forth the other significant conditions that contributed to
the cause of death, if such were found.
(i)
Each autopsy report prepared pursuant to (a) above shall contain a list
of any attachments, including but not limited to diagrams and written
diagnostic study reports; and
(j)
The CME, DCME, or designated pathologist shall sign and date the
completed report.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2004.10 Release of Remains. The remains shall be released by the OCME,
pursuant to RSA 611:14, upon a determination that no autopsy shall be ordered, or, if an external examination has been done
after specimens have been obtained, or, if an autopsy has been ordered,
once the autopsy and all testing, except for receiving such testing results,
have been completed.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2004.11 Release of Autopsy Reports.
(a)
Autopsy reports shall be released only as specified in RSA 611-A:8 and
this section.
(b)
The OCME shall treat autopsy reports as confidential medical
records. The OCME shall release a copy
of an autopsy report to the decedent’s next of kin, a law enforcement agency or
government agency involved in an investigation of the decedent’s death. The OCME may release a copy of an autopsy
report to a medical or scientific body or university or similar organization
for educational or research purposes, provided however that when such reports
are made available for that purpose, release shall be made upon the condition
that all identifying information contained in the report shall remain
confidential and shall not be published.
The OCME shall not otherwise disclose such reports without authorization
of the next of kin that complies with all applicable state and federal
requirements for the release of such records.
The requestor shall pay the fee specified in Jus 2006.01(e) before such
report shall be provided.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2004.12 Release of Information Regarding Exposures
from Remains.
(a) Following a suspected or documented unprotected
exposure, as defined in RSA 141-G:1, from
a deceased person in a medicolegal case, law enforcement personnel,
firefighters, emergency responders, and medical personnel requesting testing,
results, or both, shall not make such requests directly to the OCME. Persons making such requests shall direct
them to their agency’s medical referral consultant (MRC) established under RSA
141-G:2. The MRC shall then determine
whether the exposure might place such person at risk.
(b)
The OCME shall release to the MRC results of testing, in writing, as soon
as practicable after receiving notification to the OCME of:
(1) The determination made by the MRC that
exposure might place the person at risk;
(2) The extent and degree of exposure;
(3) The date and time of the exposure; and
(4) The identity of the deceased.
(c)
Private citizens who request testing, results, or both, from the OCME
following suspected or documented exposure from a deceased person in a
medicolegal case shall be directed to their personal physician, who shall act
as the MRC.
(d)
Except as otherwise provided by law, under no circumstances shall the
OCME release information regarding exposure and test results to any person who
is not an MRC or acting as one.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.01 Investigation Report.
(a)
The responding ME shall complete the appropriate portions of Form ME-1
“DME/ADME Investigation Report” for each death investigated. When the OCME declines jurisdiction after an
initial investigation, the responding ME shall complete only those sections
specifically designated on page one of the form. Every page upon which
information has been recorded shall be signed and dated by the responding ME.
(b)
Except as provided in (c) below, the responding ME shall record, to the
extent reasonably ascertainable and to the extent the ME deems it necessary to
perform the ME’s lawful duties, the following regarding each death on or as an
attachment to Form ME-1, regardless of whether an autopsy will be performed:
(1) The responding ME’s name and date and time
the ME was notified;
(2) The county in which the death was discovered;
(3) The following identification information
regarding the deceased:
a. Name;
b. Social security number;
c. Date of birth;
d. Sex;
e. Age at death;
f. Race; and
g. Home address;
(4) The date, time and by whom:
a. The deceased was last observed while alive;
b. The death was witnessed;
c. The decedent was found dead or unresponsive;
and
d. The death was pronounced;
(5) The place of death, including the complete
address;
(6) A brief summary of the case;
(7) The date and time of the incident, if
applicable;
(8) Whether the death appears to be work-related;
(9) The incident location, including the complete
address, if applicable;
(10) Whether the responding ME was at the scene;
(11) The arrival date and time of the responding
ME;
(12) The name, agency, and telephone number of
each lead investigator at the scene;
(13) The name of the CME, DCME, or designee the
responding ME consulted with, and the date and time of such consultation;
(14) The name of the county attorney, the date and
time at which the county attorney was consulted, and whether an autopsy was
authorized by the county attorney, if applicable;
(15) The name, address, telephone number, and
relationship of next of kin;
(16) Whether next of kin were notified of the
death and notified of whether an autopsy was ordered, if applicable;
(17) Whether the responding ME contacted the next
of kin;
(18) The name, address, telephone number, and
relationship of alternate contact;
(19) The name and contact information of the
funeral home to which the remains are to be released;
(20) In an external examination case only, the
cause and manner of death and any contributory cause(s) of death;
(21) The marital status of the deceased;
(22) With whom the deceased lived;
(23) The deceased’s family relationships;
(24) The employment status and occupation of the
deceased;
(25) Whether the deceased used alcohol, tobacco,
or engaged in recreational drug use;
(26) Pertinent medical history information of the
deceased and the deceased’s family;
(27) Whether a list of medications taken by the
deceased has been obtained and attached;
(28) Whether the deceased’s medical records have
been obtained and attached;
(29) The name and contact information of the
deceased’s attending physician, and whether the physician was contacted by the
responding ME;
(30) Whether next of kin were referred for organ
donation, and if not, the reason no referral was made;
(31) A description of the relevant environment and
climatic conditions; and
(32) A description of the circumstances surrounding
discovery of the remains.
(c)
The responding ME shall determine and attach or record, to the extent
ascertainable, the following:
(1) The location at which the responding ME
conducted the external examination of the remains;
(2) The date and time at which the external
examination commenced;
(3) Who witnessed the external examination being
conducted;
(4) Whether photographs were taken or other
imaging processes were used at the scene and upon examination;
(5) Whether a diagram of the scene was created;
(6) In the case of a confirmed identification of
the deceased, the means of identification;
(7) In the case of a tentative or unconfirmed
identification:
a. The name, address and telephone number of the
deceased’s dentist;
b. A history of x-rays or surgical procedures;
c. A description of all scars, potentially
identifying marks, or tattoos on the deceased;
d. An indication of whether fingerprints are on
file, and if so, where; and
e. A description of any identifying marks.
(8) The responding ME’s impression of the
relative temperature of the deceased’s body, including whether it was
refrigerated or otherwise cooled prior to examination;
(9) Whether rigor mortis is present and if so,
the relative degree in the jaw, neck, arms, and legs;
(10) Whether livor mortis is present and, if so, a
description:
(11) A description of the eyes;
(12) A description of all observed changes due to
decomposition;
(13) A description of all medical therapies
administered;
(14) Whether resuscitation was attempted;
(15) A description of all scars, marks, or tattoos
on the body of the deceased;
(16) A description of evidence of any injury;
(17) A description of any antemortem toxicology or
other samples that were available or obtained:
(18) A description of any postmortem toxicology or
other samples that were obtained;
(19) Whether any items have been seized and
vouchered, and if so, the disposition of those items;
(20) In cases where no autopsy will be performed,
a description of the general physical characteristics of the deceased;
(21) A description of the head hair and facial
hair;
(22) A description of the hair on the body;
(23) A description of the facial area;
(24) A general description of the neck structures;
(25) A description of the dentition;
(26) A description of the chest and breasts,
including the presence or absence of lumps or deformities;
(27) A description of the back and buttocks;
(28) Identification of the genitalia as either
male or female;
(29) A description of the abdomen;
(30) A description of the extremities, including
whether the limbs are equal and symmetrical; and the condition of the fingernails;
and
(31) Any other observations or information
gathered by the responding ME that might have significance with respect to
determining identity, the cause or manner of death, or that might otherwise
assist in a criminal investigation.
(d)
In cases where jurisdiction has been accepted and an autopsy will be
performed, the responding ME shall provide the CME, DCME, or designee, with the
completed Investigation Report prior to the autopsy being conducted.
Source. #8937,
eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.02 Sudden Infant Death Investigation Report.
(a)
The responding ME shall complete Form ME-2 “Sudden Infant Death
Investigation Report” for each such death investigated. Every page upon which information has been
recorded shall be signed and dated by the responding ME.
(b)
The responding ME shall record, to the extent ascertainable, the
following regarding each infant’s death on the “Sudden Infant Death
Investigation Report” or as an attachment thereto:
(1) The responding ME’s name;
(2) The county in which the death was discovered;
(3) The date and time that the ME was notified;
(4) The infant's:
a. Name and address;
b. Social Security number;
c. Date of birth and age;
d. Sex; and
e. Race.
(5) The date, time and name of the last person to
see the infant alive;
(6) The date, time and name of the person who
witnessed the infant’s death;
(7) The date, time and name of the person who
found the infant dead or unresponsive;
(8) The date, time, place of pronouncement of
death, and the name of the person who pronounced death;
(9) A summary of the case;
(10) The incident location, date, and time;
(11) An indication as to whether the place the
infant was initially found was a:
a. Residence;
b. Day care center;
c. Babysitter’s; or
d. Other.
(12) Whether the ME responded to the scene and if
so, the date and time;
(13) The name, agency, and phone number of each
other person investigating;
(14) The name of the CME, DCME, or designee with
whom the responding ME consulted with respect to autopsy, and the date and time
of such consultation;
(15) The name of the county attorney, the date and
time the county attorney was notified, and whether the county attorney
authorized an autopsy;
(16) The following information regarding next of
kin:
a. Name and address and telephone number; and
b. Relationship;
(17) Whether the next of kin was contacted by the
ME and notified about the infant’s death;
(18) Whether the next of kin was notified about an
autopsy;
(19) The name, address, telephone number, and
relationship of an alternate contact for the next of kin;
(20) The name, address, and phone number of the
funeral home to which the remains will be released and whether the funeral home
was chosen at the family’s request;
(21) The following information regarding the death
event:
a. When the infant was last seen alive, and by
whom;
b. When the infant was found, and by whom;
c. The position in which the infant was placed
when last seen alive;
d. The position in which the infant was found;
e. The position of the infant's face when the
infant was found;
f. A full description of the sleeping
arrangements, such as the type of bed and whether it was shared, if applicable;
g. If the bed was shared:
1. An indication whether alcohol or drugs were
used by the individuals sharing the bed with the infant; and
2. The ages, weights, and heights of the
individuals sharing the bed with the infant;
h. A list of all other items in bed with the
infant, if applicable;
i. The usual position of bedding or pillows, if
applicable;
j. A list of clothing, by layer, that the infant
was wearing when found;
k. Whether the infant was hot or sweaty when
found;
l. Whether rectal temperature was taken at any
time during attempted resuscitation and the reading;
m. Whether any fluid or material was noted as
being on the infant's face, in the infant's nostrils or mouth, or on the
bedding;
n. The following information with respect to
resuscitation:
1. Whether resuscitation was attempted at the
scene, and if so, by whom;
2. How the resuscitation was attempted;
3. The level of training of the person or
persons initiating CPR;
4. Who was contacted by the person finding the
infant, and in what order; and
5. The name and telephone number of each first
responder;
(22) From each person who initially found the
infant a description as well as
a reconstruction using a doll that shows exactly how the infant was positioned
when found;
(23) Photographs, including video recordings or
any other type of imaging process, of the reconstruction if possible;
(24) The following information on the infant's
care and medical history:
a. Whether the infant was breast fed,
bottle-fed, or fed by other means;
b. A history of any feeding problems;
c. Whether the formula required the dilution by
water or other fluids;
d. How much the infant ate or drank at the last feeding,
and what time the last feeding occurred; and
e. A description of the infant's usual eating
pattern, such as whether the infant ate solid foods and the total amount of
formula in a 24-hour period;
(25) The following information regarding, or from,
the infant's pediatrician:
a. Name and telephone number of the
pediatrician;
b. Child’s general health status;
c. The date and purpose of the infant's last
office visit; and
d. A list of all immunizations received and the
dates thereof;
(26) The following prenatal/birth history
information:
a. Whether prenatal care was received and if so,
the name and telephone number of the obstetrician;
b. The name of the birth hospital;
c. Whether there were any problems with the
pregnancy or birth;
d. The gestational age at birth in weeks; and
e. The birth weight;
(27) Information regarding the infant's medical
history, including whether the infant:
a. Was admitted to a
hospital after birth;
b. Visited the emergency room;
c. Was being given any medications;
d. Had any recent symptoms or illnesses; and
e. Had a history of injury;
(28) Whether the family has a history of other
SIDS deaths;
(29) Whether there have been other recent deaths
in the family;
(30) A description of any recent illness or health
problems of family members or caretakers;
(31) Whether the infant had any other known
exposure to illness or infection, and if so what;
(32) Whether the mother smoked during pregnancy,
after pregnancy, or both;
(33) The names, ages, and relationships of all
persons who share the residence where the infant was found and who were present
in the house prior to or when the infant was found;
(34) Whether the infant was with a single parent,
married or unmarried parents, or other caretaker;
(35) A description of the employment of the
parents/caretakers, and whether they were receiving welfare or other public
assistance;
(36) A list of caretakers other than the primary
caretakers who care for the infant or siblings on a regular basis;
(37) The percentage of time that the primary
caretaker spent with the infant;
(38) The demographics of each caretaker, including
where each grew up and now resides;
(39) An estimation of the family's socio-economic
status, selecting one of the following:
a. Poverty;
b. Low;
c. Middle; and
d. Upper;
(40) The residence where the infant was found;
(41) A description of the dwelling type;
(42) The room in which the infant was originally
found to be unresponsive;
(43) The type of heating in the residence, and
whether there were any recent repairs;
(44) The condition of the interior of the
residence;
(45) The number of rooms in the residence and the
number of persons living in the residence;
(46) Information regarding Department of Health
and Human Services, Division of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF)
involvement, including whether:
a. There were any previous DCYF referrals for
the family;
b. There were any previous DCYF referrals for
the caregiver’s family;
c. There were any previous DCYF referrals for
the parents or caregivers as children;
d. There was any family or caregiver history of
violence, drug use or alcohol abuse;
e. There were any police contacts with the
family or caregivers; and
(47) Additional notes relative to the
investigation;
(c)
The responding ME shall record on the “Sudden Infant Death Investigation
Report” the following with respect to an external examination of the infant:
(1) The place, date, and time of the external examination;
(2) The name of the person who witnessed the
external examination;
(3) Whether photographs were taken of, or other
imaging processes were used at, the scene and external examination;
(4) Whether a diagram was done and if so, is
attached;
(5) An assessment of postmortem changes,
including:
a. Temperature at time of exam;
b. Whether the infant was refrigerated/cooled
prior to the examination;
c. Presence of rigor mortis, and whether it is
complete/symmetrical and if present on the jaw, neck, arms and legs;
d. Presence of liver mortis, and its color,
distribution, refill, whether it is fixed or blanching, and whether it is
appropriate;
e. Whether the corneas of each eye were moist,
dry, clear, cloudy or opaque;
f. Whether tache noire was present in each eye;
g. An assessment of the changes of
decomposition;
(6) Whether any resuscitation was attempted;
(7) A description of any scars, marks or tattoos;
(8) Whether any signs of injury were observed;
(9) Information regarding evidence and
toxicology, including:
a. Whether antemortem specimens were obtained
and if so, the type/source of specimen, where it was drawn, who it was drawn
by, and the date/time drawn;
b. Whether postmortem specimens were obtained and
if so, the type/source of specimen, where it was drawn, who it was drawn by,
and the date/time drawn;
c. Whether other evidence was seized and if so,
a description of it; and
d. The disposition of any specimens or evidence
seized in addition to attaching a custody sheet.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.03 Release of Investigation Reports.
(a)
The OCME shall treat investigation reports as confidential medical records
pursuant to RSA 91-A, applicable federal law and consistent with RSA 611-A:8,
under which comparable information has been deemed confidential. The OCME shall on request release a copy of
an investigation report to the decedent’s next of kin, a law enforcement agency
or government agency involved in an investigation of the decedent’s death.
(b)
The OCME may release a copy of an investigation report to a medical or
scientific body or university or similar organization for educational or
research purposes, provided however that when such reports are made available
for that purpose, release shall be made upon the condition that all identifying
information contained in the report shall remain confidential and shall not be
published.
(c)
The OCME shall not otherwise disclose such reports without authorization
of the next of kin that complies with all applicable state and federal
requirements for the release of such records.
(d)
The requestor shall pay the fee specified in Jus 2006.01(e) before such
report shall be provided.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.04 Drug/Medication Inventory Form.
(a)
In accordance with Jus 2004.05 (e), the responding ME shall complete
Form ME-3 “Drug/Medication Inventory Form” for each death investigation in
which the responding ME gathers or is given custody of medications that might
be relevant to such investigation.
(b)
The responding ME shall document taking medication into custody by
providing the following on Form ME-3:
(1) The name, date of birth, age, date of death,
and address of the deceased;
(2) The OCME case number if known;
(3) The name, strength, and dosage of the
medication;
(4) A description of any markings or imprints on the
medication if the medication does not appear to represent what should be in the
container;
(5) The date the prescription was issued;
(6) The number issued;
(7) The instructions on the medication;
(8) The name of the prescribing health care provider;
(9) The name, address, and telephone number of
the pharmacy;
(10) The name of the ME completing the form and
the date completed; and
(11) The name of the person who witnessed the ME
complete the form and the date.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.05 Evidence or Property Inventory and Chain
of Custody Form.
(a)
The responding ME shall complete Form ME-4 “Evidence or Property
Inventory and Chain of Custody Form” for each death investigation in which the responding
ME gathers or is given custody of evidence, property, or personal effects found
on or with the body of the deceased, other than medications, which might be
relevant to such investigation. Jus
2004.05 (e) and Jus 2005.04 shall govern the taking of custody of
medications.
(b)
The responding ME shall list as many different items on a single form as
space allows, but shall use as many forms as necessary to document and describe
each item taken into custody. If it is
practicable, the responding ME shall photograph each item taken into custody.
(c)
The responding ME shall record on Form ME-4 “Evidence or Property
Inventory and Chain of Custody Form” the following regarding evidence or
property taken into custody while an investigation is pending:
(1) The deceased’s name, date of birth, age, and
date of death;
(2) The OCME case number if known;
(3) A
description of each item, which shall be sufficiently detailed and specific so
as to permit others to positively identify each item, listed in one of the
following 3 categories:
a. Clothing;
b. Jewelry/personal effects; and
c. Other evidence/property.
(d)
Changes in custody shall be documented as follows:
(1) The name of the person
releasing custody shall be printed clearly;
(2) The name of the person
accepting custody shall be printed clearly;
(3) The date and time of such transfer of
custody; and
(4) The purpose of such transfer of custody.
(e)
Any change in custody shall be documented in the first instance by the
responding ME having custody, and then signed by such responding ME and the
person to whom custody is transferred.
Subsequent changes in custody within or from the OCME shall be
documented by the person having custody and then signed by that person and the
person to whom custody is transferred.
If items are retained by the OCME, such items shall be listed under
“Items Held & Disposition.”
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.06 Identification Tag.
(a)
Prior to transport to the morgue for autopsy, the responding ME shall
complete and affix Form ME-5 “Identification Tag” to each set of remains for which an autopsy will be performed.
(b)
The responding ME shall provide the following information, to the extent
known, on Form ME-5:
(1) The name, date of birth, and address of the
deceased;
(2) The name and telephone number of the next of
kin;
(3) The date, time, and place of injury, if
applicable;
(4) The date, time, and place of death;
(5) The circumstances of death and any other
information pertinent to such circumstances;
(6) Whether the responding ME or any law
enforcement officials investigating the death have suspicions of foul play;
(7) Whether any law enforcement officials investigating
the death anticipate that criminal charges will be filed;
(8) The name of each investigating law
enforcement agency and official, and the telephone number of such official;
(9) The name and telephone number of the
responding ME;
(10) The name and telephone number of the person, business, or organization that
transported the remains to
(11) The name and telephone number of the person, business, or organization to whom the
body will be released following the autopsy, if known; and
(12) The name of the person who completed the
form.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.07 Cremation Certification. The following shall be recorded on Form ME-6
“Cremation Certification” by the responding ME:
(a)
The name of the decedent;
(b)
The date and time of death;
(c)
The place of death;
(d)
The age and date of birth of the decedent;
(e)
The name of the crematory and, if the ME viewed the body somewhere
other than the crematory, the location of the view;
(f)
The causes of death as they appear on the death certificate;
(g)
The determined manner of death, specifying whether it was natural,
accident, suicide, homicide, pending, or undetermined;
(h)
The following information relative to examination of the decedent:
(1) Whether photographs or other visual images of
the decedent’s face were taken, if feasible;
(2) Whether the decedent was fingerprinted, if
feasible; and
(3) Whether a hair sample was taken, if feasible.
(i)
The date and time the ME viewed the remains;
(j)
An indication, based on a review of the death certificate, whether:
(1) The cause of death was described in an
etiologically specific fashion, in detail; or
(2) Whether amendment to the death certificate is
required and, if so, what amendment is necessary and why.
(k)
Additional relevant comments, including whether there is a
recommendation that an autopsy should be conducted, and if yes an explanation
of why an autopsy should be conducted.
(l)
The name and signature of the responding ME certifying he or she has
viewed the remains, reviewed the cause and manner of death, and is of the
opinion that no further investigation or examination is required; and
(m) The date the form was completed and signed.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.08 Log of Unidentified Remains.
(a)
The responding ME shall complete Form ME-7, “Log of Unidentified Remains”
for each death investigation where multiple, potentially human remains are
found but cannot be immediately identified.
(b)
The responding ME shall list as many different items on a single form as
space allows, but shall use as many forms as necessary to document and describe
each item taken into custody.
(c)
The responding ME shall record the following information for each death
investigation in which potentially human remains are found but cannot be
immediately identified:
(1) The suspected body part found;
(2) The body part identification number;
(3) The date and time that the remains were
found;
(4) The location where the remains were found;
(5) The disposition of the remains; and
(6) The name of the responding ME.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2005.09 Report of Unidentified Remains.
(a)
The responding ME shall complete Form ME-8, “Report of Unidentified
Remains” for each death investigation in which potentially human remains are
found but cannot be immediately identified.
(b)
The responding ME shall record the following information for each death
investigation in which potentially human remains are found but cannot be
immediately identified:
(1) The County and location where the
unidentified remains were found
(2) The responding ME’s name;
(3) The date and time the ME was notified
concerning the remains;
(4) A description of the remains:
(5) The identification number assigned to the
remains:
(6) A description of the circumstances of the
discovery of the remains;
(8) Whether the ME responded to the scene and if
so the date and time;
(9) The name and phone number of each lead
investigator and agency involved with the investigation of the remains;
(10) The name of the CME, DCME, or designee the ME
consulted regarding the remains and the date and time of the consultation;
(11) The name of the
(12) If applicable, whether an autopsy was
authorized;
(13) Information concerning the disposition of the
unidentified remains;
(14) Whether a funeral home transported the
remains from the scene;
(15) The name of the person who released the remains
to the funeral home for transport from the scene and if so;
a. The address and phone number of the funeral
home; and
b The signature of the responding ME and the
date signed; and
(16) Other information of potential significance
to the investigation.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
Jus 2006.01 Fees.
(a)
Each responding ME shall receive the following fees, to the extent that
such are actually performed or incurred:
(1) For each investigation, a fee of $125;
(2) For each telephone consultation for cases
reported but jurisdiction declined by the OCME, a fee of $25;
(3) Mileage reimbursement pursuant to RSA 611 at
the pertinent established state or county reimbursement rate;
(4) Reimbursement of the actual amount incurred
for tolls paid responding to the scene; and
(5) Reimbursement for the actual amount incurred
for toll telephone calls made in the performance of medical examiner duties.
(b)
Medical examiners and providers of body transport services shall submit
invoices on a monthly basis to the OCME.
Such invoices shall be in sufficient detail and with such supporting
documentation as to enable the OCME and the county to verify the substance of
the invoice.
(c)
Autopsy expenses shall be billed in accordance with RSA 611:17.
(e) Parties entitled
to receive investigation reports and autopsy reports free of charge shall
include next of kin, law enforcement agencies, and governmental agencies
involved in the death investigation.
Reports to all others shall be available
for a fee of $50 for each such report requested, unless no fee is charged as
provided by law or these rules. Other
documents in the possession of the OCME that are public documents pursuant to
RSA 91-A, shall be available for a charge of $0.25 per copied page plus the
actual cost of postage, if mailed.
Source.
#8937, eff 7-14-07
APPENDIX
RULE |
STATUTE |
|
|
Jus 2001 |
RSA 541-A:7 |
Jus 2002.01 |
RSA 611-A:1, I |
Jus 2002.02 |
RSA 611-A:1-a |
Jus 2002.03 |
RSA 611:2, I |
Jus 2002.04 – 05 |
RSA 611:2, II |
Jus 2002.06 |
RSA 611:2, I and II; RSA 611:9 |
Jus 2002.07 |
RSA 611:4; RSA 611:5 |
Jus 2002.08 |
RSA 611:13; RSA 611-A:1, II |
Jus 2003.01 (a) and (b) |
RSA 611-A:1, I; RSA 611-A:1-a; RSA 611-A:6 |
Jus 2003.01 (c) |
RSA 611-A:2 |
Jus 2003.01 (d) |
RSA 611:3 |
Jus 2003.01 (e) |
RSA 611:2; RSA 611:5 |
Jus 2003.02 (a) – (c) |
RSA 611:13 |
Jus 2003.02 (d) |
RSA 5-C:62, IV |
Jus 2004.01(a) |
RSA 611:3 |
Jus 2004.01 (b) – (e) |
RSA 325-A:3 |
Jus 2004.02 |
RSA 611:3; RSA 611:5; RSA 611:6 |
Jus 2004.03 |
RSA 611:3; RSA 611:7; RSA 611:8, RSA 611:14 |
Jus 2004.04 |
RSA 611:6 |
Jus 2004.05 |
RSA 611:5; RSA 611:6; RSA 611:8, RSA 611:16; RSA 611-A:8-a |
Jus 2004.06 |
RSA 611:9; RSA 611:12 |
Jus 2004.07 |
RSA 611:7 |
Jus 2004.18 |
RSA 611:7; RSA 611:8; RSA 611-A:7 |
Jus 2004.09 |
RSA 611-A:8 |
Jus 2004.10 |
RSA 611:14 |
Jus 2004.11 |
RSA 141-G:2; RSA 611-A:8, IV |
Jus 2004.12 |
RSA 611-A:1; RSA 141-G:2 |
|
|
Jus 2005 |
RSA 541-A:16; RSA 611:19 |
|
|
Jus 2006 |
RSA 611:18; RSA 611-A:1-a |