Question

In a ligature hanging case, the best way to lower the suspended body is by __________.

1) untying only the knot at the neck level, leaving the rest of the ligature intact for measurement.
2) untying only the knot at the point of suspension, leaving the rest of the ligature intact.
3) cutting the ligature at its midpoint, so as to preserve the portions around the neck and at the point of suspension.
4) cutting the ligature near the point of suspension, if necessary, at a site away from any knots, leaving all knots and the rest of the ligature intact.
5) loosening all knots, so that no cutting is done, allowing the body to be removed from the scene and the ligature kept intact.

Answer 1

Cutting the ligature near the point of suspension.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a ligature hanging case, the best way to lower the suspended body is by cutting the ligature near the point of suspension. This should be done, if necessary, at a site away from any knots, leaving all knots and the rest of the ligature intact. By doing so, the portions around the neck and at the point of suspension can be preserved for further examination and measurement.