NCJ Number
146699
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 41 Issue: 12 Dated: (December 1993) Pages: 67-70
Date Published
1993
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Investigators are alerted to the phenomenon of suicide committed as instructed in the controversial 1991 book, "Final Exit," by Derek Humphrey.
Abstract
The author of this article recommends that homicide investigators be aware of the concept of self-deliverance, and keep a copy of "Final Exit" in their research library. He explains what the book is all about and how it may help them in their death investigations. "Final Exit" has two parts: "Self-Deliverance for the Dying Person," and "Euthanasia Involving Doctors and Nurses." The book contains instructions on how to prepare for the act of suicide, how best to commit the act, what to say in a suicide note or tape, and what to do if revived and recovered before the moment of death. Three suicide cases are reviewed in which a copy of the book was found at the scene. An investigative checklist summarizes points to look for in a death scene that may indicate influence of the book; in such cases, the possibility of victim assistance is presumed.