Autopsy Decision Not Made By Michael Schiavo, Official Says
Tbo.com ^ | 03/30/05 | jdhljc169
 

CLEARWATER - It is not up to Michael Schiavo to decide whether his wife, Terri, should undergo an autopsy after death. ``He doesn't have any choice in the matter,'' said Bill Pellan, director of investigations for the Pinellas-Pasco Medical Examiner's Office.

Medical Examiner Jon Thogmartin decides when an autopsy is required under state law, Pellan said.

On Monday, attorney George Felos announced that Michael Schiavo wanted an autopsy performed to silence critics who have accused him of planning to have Terri Schiavo's remains cremated to cover up wrongdoing.

``Claims have been made there is some motive behind the cremation,'' Felos said.

Pellan said Thogmartin had already decided that Terri Schiavo's situation requires him to perform an autopsy when another Schiavo lawyer called Monday to find out whether that was the case.

``There have been allegations that this is not a natural death,'' Pellan said.

Also, under state law, the medical examiner has the discretion of performing an autopsy when a body is to be cremated.

Michael Schiavo has obtained court permission to do so over the objection of Bob and Mary Schindler.
 

(Excerpt) Read more at news.tbo.com ...