Indiana § 36-2-14-17 - Violent or suspicious death of person; failure to notify authorities of discovery of body or moving body from scene; offenses
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 36-2-14-17 — Violent or suspicious death of person; failure to notify authorities of discovery of body or moving body from scene; offenses, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 36-2-14-17. Violent or suspicious death of person; failure to notify authorities of discovery of body or moving body from scene; offenses
Sec. 17. (a) A person who knowingly or intentionally fails to immediately notify the coroner or a law enforcement agency of the discovery of the body of a person who:
(1) has died from violence;
(2) has died in an apparently suspicious, unusual, or unnatural manner; or
(3) has died at less than three (3) years of age;
commits a Class B infraction. However, the failure to immediately notify under this subsection is a Class A misdemeanor if the person fails to immediately notify with the intent to hinder a criminal investigation.
(b) A person who, with the intent to hinder a criminal investigation and without the permission of the coroner or a law enforcement officer, knowingly or intentionally alters the scene of death of a person who has died:
(1) from violence; or
(2) in an apparently suspicious, unusual, or unnatural manner;
commits a Level 6 felony.
As added by P.L.339-1987, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.225-2007, SEC.16; P.L.158-2013, SEC.674.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 36-2-14-17
What does Indiana Code § 36-2-14-17 cover?
Section 36-2-14-17 ("Violent or suspicious death of person; failure to notify authorities of discovery of body or moving body from scene; offenses") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 36-2-14-17?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 36-2-14-17" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 36-2-14-17 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.