A recent court ruling has dismissed lawsuits filed by families against Harvard University, who sued after discovering that their loved ones’ donated remains were stolen and sold on the black market. The scandal involved the university’s morgue manager, Cedric Lodge, who is accused of trafficking body parts from donated cadavers.
Despite hopes that the lawsuit would hold Harvard accountable, the judge ruled that the university is immune from liability because it acted in good faith and is not responsible for the alleged misconduct of its employee. This decision has left families disappointed and questioning Harvard’s accountability.
Attorney Kathryn Barnett, representing the families, criticized the ruling, stating that Harvard turned a blind eye to the activities in the morgue. The panel of experts hired by Harvard has made recommendations for better oversight and training, but families remain unsatisfied with the report’s findings.
The attorneys for the families intend to appeal the judge’s decision, believing that Harvard should be held responsible for the theft and sale of body parts from donated remains. NBC10 Boston reached out to Harvard for comment, but the university did not offer a statement.
The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in medical research institutions, as families continue to seek justice for the violation of their loved ones’ remains.
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