I chose to research the role that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays in the court of law because I heard an incredible story (“My Brain Made Me Do It”) that related specifically to several of the topics we’ve been discussing in class. To review the definition of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), “it is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body.” MRI’s are currently widely used for medical as well as scientific purposes due to the fact they are non-invasive and relatively safe. It should be noted that some individuals, mainly those with metal implants or pacemakers, should not be exposed to an MRI. In a study published in “Circulation” in 2007 that patients with cochlear implants, insulin pumps, or pacemakers should not be subjected to MRI. The authors of the study formed this recommendation after noticing that several patients that had pacemakers experienced arrhythmia, and in some instances, even death, when MRI scans were conducted on them without appropriate precautions.
Returning to the story on NBC, there are new techniques being used in the court of law so that judges will have the ability to understand what is going on in the human brain. The first example is a pediatrician who has cared for patients for over 30 years and now faces trial for charges of pedophilia. The specific evidence that came to light for his defense was the fact that an MRI showed he had a 4 centimeter tumor growing at the base of the brain. Thus, the tumor created pressure in his brain and altered his behavior. The tumor was located on “the thinking side of his brain”. Following unsuccessful treatment for cancer he underwent surgery to remove the egg sized tumor. Removing the tumor and pressure it induced upon the brain appears to have restored the ability of his brain to control impulses. After which he was able to return to normal life.
Reflecting on this story, I can think of important implications for this work as well as a significant effect on society. Should new laws be instated that would include an MRI and psychological evaluation as a mandatory first step in processing a suspect? As with DNA testing, being used much more frequently to exonerate convicted criminals (“DNA Evidence Changes Murder Conviction”), can we anticipate seeing a flurry of new appeals based on the results of an MRI? There are several more documented cases with suspects reflecting similar symptoms and potential illnesses. I believe actual biological and neuroscientific evidence will be able to take a partner in true cases of misplaced guilt sometime in the future. For many criminals, but specifically for those who suffer from brain based disorders, there appears to be hope for a long-term application that can and will be applied in the court of law.
Works Cited:
- Kate Kelland, “My brain made me do it: Neuroscience takes the stand” , www.msnbc.com/id/48825789, Sept. 9, 2012
- WebMD, “Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)”, http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri, Sept. 11, 2012
- Stephanie Tyrpa and Benjy Jeffords, “Evidence Changes Murder Conviction”, http://www.wsiltv.com/news/local/DNA-Evidence-Changes-Murder-Conviction-168207866.html, Sept. 11, 2012
- “Circulation” Journal; Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with cardiovascular devices; GN Levine, MD et al., DOI: 10.1161, 2007