Homicides and Release: Organ vs. Tissue, and Transplant vs. Research

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During this presentation, we will review how the decision to release or restrict donation may be influenced by the cause, manner, and circumstances surrounding death. The session will evaluate how considerations for release may be influenced by the intended use of donated organs and tissues and the impact of factors such as donation after cardiac death (DCD) or an investigator observing recovery may have on the final decision.

Jennifer L. Hammers, D.O.

Anatomic, Clinical and Forensic Pathologist

Dr. Hammers is a Board Certified Anatomic, Clinical and Forensic Pathologist who performs autopsies and teaches the Forensic Pathology course for the fifth-year students in the Master of Anthropology Program at Boston University and the Master of Forensic Science and Law Program at Duquesne University. Dr. Hammers has a particular interest in cardiac pathology and actively participates in research related to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). After training in forensic pathology in at the New York City Medical Examiner’s office, she worked for several years in Massachusetts and New York City. Dr. Hammers then accepted a position in a private practice located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where she worked for over five years before establishing Jennifer Hammers Pathology, which serves several counties in Western Pennsylvania by providing autopsy services. Dr. Hammers also performs autopsies and medical legal consultations at the request of families and attorneys.

Tim Carson

Westmoreland County Coroner

As the Westmoreland County coroner, Timothy Carson is responsible for investigating the facts and circumstances of deaths that occur within the county, regardless of where the cause thereof may have occurred. The purpose of the investigation shall be to determine the cause of death and manner of death. He is also responsible for determining whether or not there is sufficient reason to believe that any such death may have resulted from criminal acts or criminal neglect of persons other than the deceased.

Timothy Carson worked in the Westmoreland County Sheriff's Office from 2000-2011 as the Director of Community Affairs and Grant Coordinator. He served as Chief Deputy in the Register of Wills Office from 2011-2012. Timothy is a 1989 graduate of Southmoreland High School and 1993 graduate of Waynesburg College. He resides in Scottdale and has three daughters and two sons.

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