Medicolegal Evaluation of an Abandoned Dead Neonate: A Case Report

Alok Atreya,Bishnu Pathak,Indira Devkota,Lokaratna Gyawali

doi:10.31729/jnma.6292

Abstract

The killing of an illegitimate newborn immediately or within 24 hours of birth is neonaticide which differs from other forms of homicide in terms of diagnosis and motives. Neonaticide is a cognizable offense where mothers are usually the perpetrators. This case reports the autopsy findings of a smothered neonate at a secluded location in rural Nepal. The present case study also highlights the medicolegal implications in such cases.

Highlights

The killing of an illegitimate newborn immediately or within 24 hours of birth is neonaticide which differs from other forms of homicide in terms of diagnosis and motives
We present a case of a newborn who was discovered dead in a secluded location in rural Nepal and discuss the medicolegal aspects in such cases
During the autopsy of a newborn, forensic pathologists are required to determine if it was a case of live birth, stillbirth, or dead born

Summary

Introduction

The killing of an illegitimate newborn immediately or within 24 hours of birth is neonaticide which differs from other forms of homicide in terms of diagnosis and motives. The killing of a newborn differs from other forms of homicide in terms of diagnosis and motives. We present a case of a newborn who was discovered dead in a secluded location in rural Nepal and discuss the medicolegal aspects in such cases.

Results

Conclusion