This week in pop culture and law is dedicated to Andrew Koenig.
Best known for his role as “Boner” on “Growing Pains” from 1985-89, Koenig suffered from depression as an adult and, sadly, was found dead yesterday in a Vancouver park after committing suicide.
Believe it or not, suicide used to be a felony in many states and, today, some states classify attempted suicide as a criminal act even though prosecutions are rare. Illegal or not, let’s make sure none of our friends or family gets to that point. If you are feeling desperate, alone, or hopeless … or know someone who is, please call for help ASAP.
In case you missed Popsquire’s Friday night appearance on CNN’s Showbiz Tonight, below is an encore presentation. The topic: legal issues involved in the death of Paula Goodspeed, the extreme fan/stalker found dead near Paula Abdul’s house next week. Enjoy!
According to TMZ, a construction worked hanged himself at an Agoura Hills house owned (but not occupied) by Mel Gibson. The body allegedly was in “full-body rigor mortis,” indicating that the body may have been there at least overnight. Yikes!
Popsquire’s piece of info…
In the old days, suicide was a felony under common law. Today, some states classify attempted suicide as a criminal act, but prosecutions are rare.
Interestingly, a person who causes the death of an innocent bystander or would-be rescuer while in the process of attempting suicide may be guilty of murder or manslaughter.
In discussing Heath Ledger’s death with Page Six, actor Jonathan Zarin says: “Everyone in Hollywood experiments with drugs.”
Popsquire’s warning…
Be careful, Mr. Zarin. If you were to subtitute “everyone” with specific names, you could find himself involved in a serious lawsuit for defamation…unless, of course, your statement was true.
Remember, a defamatory statement generally is an untrue statement of fact that harms someone’s reputation.
Popsquire trusts you already know that Heath Ledger was found dead today in New York City. CNN reports that it was a “possible drug overdose,” citing prescription sleeping pills found ”in the vicinity of the bed” as supporting evidence. Very sad news.
Popsquire’s perspective…
Popsquire already has discussed this importance of having a will in previous posts – here and aqui — this week, so let’s discuss suicide…
In the old days, suicide was a felony under common law. Today, some states classify attempted suicide as a criminal act, but prosecutions are rare. Interestingly, a person who causes the death of an innocent bystander or would-be rescuer while in the process of attempting suicide may be guilty of murder or manslaughter.
No one officially has declared Heath’s death a suicide, but Popsquire can still spot an issue a mile away. My deepest sympathies to Heath’s family, especially his young daughter.
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