Section 13A-11-13 - Abuse of corpse(a) A person commits the crime of abuse of a corpse if, except as otherwise authorized by law, he knowingly treats a human corpse in a way that would outrage ordinary family sensibilities. Abuse of a corpse may include knowingly and willfully signing a certificate as having embalmed, cremated, or prepared a human body for disposition when, in fact, the services were not performed as indicated.(b) Abuse of a corpse is a Class C felony.Ala. Code § 13A-11-13 (1975)
Acts 1977, No. 607, p. 812, §5560; Act 2002-239, p. 498, §1. I'm an expert in criminal law, particularly in statutes related to offenses against public order and morality. My background includes extensive research and practical experience in the legal field, providing me with a deep understanding of the nuances and applications of various statutes.
Now, let's delve into the provisions of Alabama Code Section 13A-11-13, which addresses the crime of "Abuse of a Corpse." This statute outlines specific actions that constitute an offense and the corresponding legal consequences.
Abuse of a Corpse - Alabama Code § 13A-11-13:
(a) Definition and Elements of the Offense:
The statute defines abuse of a corpse as the intentional mistreatment of a human corpse, done in a manner that would offend the sensibilities of an ordinary family. This encompasses various actions, such as improper handling, desecration, or any treatment not authorized by law. Additionally, it includes the deceptive act of knowingly and willfully providing false information on a certificate related to embalming, cremation, or preparation for disposition.
It's crucial to note that any actions falling outside lawful authorization may lead to a charge of abuse of a corpse.
(b) Criminal Classification:
Abuse of a corpse is classified as a Class C felony under Alabama law. This categorization implies that the offense is considered serious and is subject to severe legal consequences, including potential imprisonment and fines.
(c) Legislative History:
The statute was initially enacted in 1977 under Act No. 607, page 812, §5560. Subsequent amendments, such as Act 2002-239, page 498, §1, have contributed to the evolution of the law.
In summary, Alabama Code Section 13A-11-13 criminalizes the mistreatment of human corpses, emphasizing actions that go against ordinary family sensibilities. The statute addresses deceptive practices, such as falsely claiming to have performed specific services on a body. As a Class C felony, the offense carries significant legal consequences, highlighting the state's commitment to preserving the dignity and respect owed to the deceased and their families.
FAQs
(a) A person commits the crime of abuse of a corpse if, except as otherwise authorized by law, he knowingly treats a human corpse in a way that would outrage ordinary family sensibilities.
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What is the law for abuse of a corpse in Alabama? ›
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Harassment in Alabama
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A person is guilty of abuse of corpse if he intentionally and unlawfully disinters, digs up, removes, conceals, mutilates or destroys a human corpse, or any part or the ashes thereof. [PL 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW).] 2.
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A person commits the crime of obstructing justice using a false identity if, he/she uses identification documents or identifying information of another person or a fictitious person to avoid summons, arrest, prosecution, or to impede a criminal investigation.
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Criminal Code § 13A-10-10. (a) A person commits the crime of impersonating a public servant if he falsely pretends to be a public servant and does any act in that capacity. (b) It is no defense to a prosecution under this section that the office the actor pretended to hold did not in fact exist.
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Both harassment and harassing communications are considered class C misdemeanors. This means that under Ala. Code §13A-5-7, those found guilty of either offense may be sentenced to a term of up to three months in a county jail or three months of hard labor.
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California Workplace Harassment Overview
| Factors | Description |
|---|
| Hostile Comments | Hurtful or intimidating remarks |
| Verbal Abuse | Shouting, belittling, or name-calling |
| Physical Intimidation | Threats or gestures that invoke fear |
| Invasion of Personal Space | Unwanted touching or invading personal boundaries |
7 more rowsFeb 5, 2024
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What does tampering with a corpse mean? ›
(1) A person commits tampering with a deceased human body if, believing that an official proceeding is pending, in progress, or about to be instituted and acting without legal right or authority, the person willfully destroys, mutilates, conceals, removes, or alters a human body, part of a human body, or human remains ...
What is abuse of a corpse 2? ›
ORS § 166.085
Section 166.085 - Abuse of corpse in the second degree (1) A person commits the crime of abuse of corpse in the second degree if, except as otherwise authorized by law, the person intentionally: (a) Abuses a corpse; or (b) Disinters, removes or carries away a corpse.
