A real case where a crime was committed in a healthcare context

Full Answer Section

• Investigation: The investigation into the deaths began after a pattern of unexplained deaths was noticed at the facility. Law enforcement authorities reviewed medical records, interviewed staff, and conducted a forensic analysis of the victims' bodies.
• Arrest and Trial: Wagoner was arrested and charged with the crimes. Her trial is currently ongoing.

• Murder: The charges of third-degree murder indicate that the prosecution believes Wagoner acted with malice but did not intend to cause immediate death.
• Intent: Proving intent is a key element in murder cases. Prosecutors must demonstrate that Wagoner knew her actions would likely result in death or serious injury.
• Medical records: Medical records will be crucial evidence in this case, as they can provide information about the victims' health conditions, medications, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
• Expert testimony: Experts in medicine, toxicology, and forensics may be called to testify about the cause of death and the potential role of insulin in the deaths.

Sample Answer

Case Study: Nurse Charged with Patient Murder

Case: In 2018, a registered nurse in Pennsylvania was charged with murder after allegedly injecting patients with a lethal dose of medication. The nurse, Jennifer Lynn Wagoner, was accused of killing five patients at a rehabilitation facility.

Summary of Facts:

• Alleged Crimes: Wagoner was charged with five counts of third-degree murder and one count of attempted murder.
• Victims: The victims were elderly patients with underlying health conditions who were receiving care at the rehabilitation facility.
• Method of Murder: Prosecutors alleged that Wagoner injected the victims with a lethal dose of insulin, which caused them to die of hypoglycemia.