20 child autopsies by pathologist questioned

[trevster2k]

An Ontario pathologist made questionable conclusions of foul play in 20 child autopsies, 13 of which resulted in criminal convictions, Ontario's chief coroner says.

Coroner Barry McLellan presented these findings Thursday, based on a review of 45 child autopsies conducted by Charles Smith between 1991 and 2002. All 45 autopsies concluded the cause of death was either homicide or criminally suspicious.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2007/04/19/smith-autopsies.html


Another reason for not having a death penalty. Errors by pathologists in determining cause of death.

 

[anitram]

I know him personally (friends with one of his kids). Very messy situation.

A lot of what he did is very questionable. Pathology isn't necessarily an exact science and even in a "regular" case, it's reason enough not to have the DP kick in, but especially in cases like this.