Medicolegal Evaluation of an Abandoned Dead Neonate: A Case Report

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.

Keywords

• autopsy; crime; medicolegal aspects; neonaticide; Nepal