The Forensic Panel’s neuroradiologists can aid the assessment of criminal responsibility for cases that range from evaluating an insanity defense allegation to determining diminished capacity. Computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron-emission tomography (PET), and ultrasound tests identify areas of potential diminished capacity; the link of those findings to criminal responsibility, however, may be more tenuous.
Forensic Assessment of Criminal Responsibility
The most reliable evidence to date relates to whether imaging demonstrates further evidence of a particular condition that may have seriously impaired the moral decision-making and criminal responsibility of the suspect. Neuroradiology consultation from The Forensic Panel informs the court whether findings on CT, MRI, or PET inform the court, or are non-specific and normal variants. Peer-review by other expert neuroradiologists ensures scrupulous adherence to the clinical context of the criminal responsibility findings, and responsible interpretation of what “normal” is, based upon available research samples.