Body scanning machines may reduce need for invasive procedures in death ­probes

CAMPAIGNER ANN STARK HAS BEEN CALLING FOR OVERHAUL OF THE POST-MORTEM SYSTEM IN SCOTLAND AFTER HER SON RICHARD HAD TISSUE SAMPLES REMOVED AGAINST HER WILL. 17:21, 05 Jun 2025 A MUM whose son

had a post-mortem examination without her consent has welcomed a pilot of body-scanning machines which may reduce the need for the invasive procedures. Ann Stark has been calling for

overhaul of the post-mortem system in Scotland after her son Richard had tissue samples removed against her will. She and husband Gerry want CT ­scanners and keyhole surgery used as often as

possible. Last month, Scottish prosecutors travelled to England to study post-mortem body scanning machines. The Crown Office last week approved a pilot on the use of CT scanning in

instructed post-mortems. Article continues below Ann, from Bothwell, Lanarkshire, said: “We are pleased to see the pilot project has started in Scotland. "But there are concerns that

pathologists will still perform invasive post-mortems when it may not be necessary, in order to collect samples. “We will never forgive all involved in Richard’s case. "Is it still

worth butchering a loved one for the sake of a worthless death certificate?” Richard, 25, an accountant, suffered a seizure and died at home in 2019. Ann told police officers she didn’t want

a full invasive examination. Three weeks later she learned that a full autopsy had taken place with tissue samples taken. She petitioned the Scottish Parliament in a bid for the rules to be

changed so post-mortems can only be carried out with permission of the next of kin. Holyrood’s public petitions committee is considering the call for a review of legislation. Procurator

Fiscal Andy Shanks said: “We recognise it can be distressing to know that a post-mortem is required, and the Procurator Fiscal only ever instructs one where it is necessary to establish the

cause of death.” Scottish Labour Health spokesperson Jackie Baillie said “This is positive step forward that could help reduce trauma for bereaved families, but this is the start of a

journey rather than the end. “The SNP must watch this pilot closely and ensure its findings are acted on swiftly.” Article continues below _DON'T MISS THE LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND

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