Minnesota § 390.221 - BODIES; EFFECTS; CUSTODY
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 390.221 — BODIES; EFFECTS; CUSTODY, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 390.221. BODIES; EFFECTS; CUSTODY
A person may not move, interfere with, or handle the body or the effects of a decedent subject to an investigation by the coroner or medical examiner except upon order of the coroner, medical examiner, assistant, or authorized investigator. The coroner or medical examiner shall take charge of the effects found on or near the body of a deceased person and dispose of them as directed under section 390.225. If a crime is suspected in connection with the death of a deceased person, the coroner or medical examiner may prevent any person, except law enforcement personnel, from entering the premises, rooms, or buildings, and shall have the custody of objects that the coroner or examiner deems material evidence in the case. The coroner or medical examiner shall release any property or articles needed for any criminal investigation to law enforcement officers conducting the investigation, except as noted in section 390.225, subdivision 2. A knowing violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
History:
1980 c 509 s 147; 1985 c 265 art 7 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1995 c 189 s 8; 1996 c 277 s 1; 2006 c 260 art 8 s 15
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 390.221
What does Minnesota Statutes § 390.221 cover?
Section 390.221 ("BODIES; EFFECTS; CUSTODY") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. 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 Minnesota § 390.221?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 390.221" (Minnesota). 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 Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 390.221 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota 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 Minnesota.