MO SB273

Establishes that crime scene and death scene photographs and video recordings depicting deceased persons in states of dismemberment, decapitation, or similar mutilation are open for inspection but closed for copying after an investigation becomes inactive.

Allows disclosure to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, courts, coroners, child fatality review panels, department of social services, and other officials who need access to perform their duties without requiring notice to next of kin.

Permits the deceased's nonoffending next of kin (spouse, adult child, or parent in that order) to inspect materials or authorize others to do so by providing written consent and proof of familial relationship.

Allows circuit court judges to order disclosure of such materials in closed criminal investigations upon written findings that public interest outweighs privacy interests, after considering necessity for governmental evaluation and availability of less intrusive alternatives.

Requires the custodian of crime scene materials to provide the deceased's nonoffending next of kin at least two weeks' notice prior to releasing materials, and permits defense counsel to access materials for litigation preparation without dissemination restrictions.