Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Day Two: Forensic Pathologist takes stand

Judge Barry Donalty has just apologized to the court for a 16 minute late start due to his earlier cases.

Mike Sikirica, a forensic pathologist has just gotten to the stand. He is the Rennsealer County Medical Examiner, explaining his background in medical school, as well as having finished a board credited examination, with a speciality in forensic medicine. He says he has been practicing as a forensic pathologist since the early 90s, and says he's probably testified 400-500 times in New York State and other states.

Prosecution asks how many times he's performed autopsies that resulted in a finding of death due to gunshot wound; he claims he's handled over 4,000.

Sikirica explains what an autopsy is and how its used to determine the manner of death. He says depending on the nature of the case they start with an external examination of the deceased. This is all background for Sikirica's credibility as a witness and his expertise in the field.

No comments: