Reflective Journal Questions:
1. Using the information presented in the film that outlines the career of Dr. Gill, describe how Dr. Gill’s pathway is an example of many of the flaws that exist within the death investigations system in America. Use specific examples from the film for support. In order to answer this question adequately, you must discuss Dr. Gill’s varying places of employment, what happened at those places, and how this relates to flaws in the system. Take the stance that I know nothing about Dr. Gill and his career pathways.
2. Were you surprised to learn there is no federal oversight for death investigators or the offices where they work? Why or why not?
3. The film discusses the differences between forensic pathologists and coroners. What are these differences between these two professions?
4. The case involving Coroner Brown mentions that the autopsy of the homicide victim was completed by a private institution in an outdoor garage behind a hospital. Were you surprised to learn that autopsies were still conducted in such dated locations? Why do you think this is?
5. Provide the details surrounding any one (or more if desired) of the multiple examples from the cases overseen by Coroner Minyard. Then using that case, describe why it is critical for death investigations to be objective.
6. Do you think the federal government should provide funding for medicolegal death investigations occurring in the United States? Why or why not? Explain your position and defend your stance.
