Harvard University is requesting the dismissal of lawsuits filed by families who claim that the institution mishandled the bodies of their loved ones, resulting in the sale of organs and body parts on the black market. The families allege that the former manager of Harvard’s morgue, Cedric Lodge, was responsible for these illicit activities. In response, Martin Murphy, a lawyer representing the university, expressed remorse for the pain and uncertainty suffered by the families. However, Murphy argued that Harvard is protected by Massachusetts law, which grants broad immunity unless the families can demonstrate a lack of “good faith” on the institution’s part. He emphasized that none of the lawsuits have presented evidence implicating anyone other than Lodge in the alleged misconduct. On the other hand, the families’ lawyers contend that Harvard should not be shielded from liability under the state’s Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, as it allowed unlawfully obtained donor bodies to be displayed, dismembered, and trafficked. Kathryn Barnett, one of the lawyers representing the families, highlighted the devastation they experienced upon discovering the extent of Lodge’s actions. They hope that the lawsuits will shed light on how Harvard seemingly turned a blind eye to this behavior over an extended period. Judge Kenneth Salinger acknowledged the complexity of the case and promised to issue a ruling promptly. These lawsuits emerged following the federal charges brought against Lodge and five others for trafficking stolen human remains from Harvard Medical School and an Arkansas mortuary. Prosecutors revealed that Lodge allowed potential buyers access to the morgue to examine cadavers and select which body parts to purchase. The buyers then resold these stolen body parts. Lodge and his wife were also involved in selling stolen remains from their home in New Hampshire and shipping them out of state. The families affected by this scandal seek answers in their pursuit of justice.
Harvard University is requesting the dismissal of lawsuits filed by families who claim the university mishandled the bodies of their loved ones, which were donated to its medical school. The families allege that the former manager of Harvard’s morgue, Cedric Lodge, sold organs and body parts on the black market. Harvard argues that it is immune from lawsuits under Massachusetts law unless it can be proven that the university acted in bad faith. The families’ lawyers argue that Harvard should be held liable for allowing unlawful display, dismemberment, and trafficking of donor bodies. A ruling from the judge is pending.
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