You Don’t Know Jack 2010

Kevorkian builds the Mercitron

Motivated by Rivlin's case and his mother's death memory, Kevorkian constructs the 'Mercitron' using parts bought at a flea market. He envisions a device that would offer patients a quicker, less painful way to die. The creation marks the start of his controversial experiments with assisted suicide.

Meets Rivlin and presents the device

Kevorkian meets Rivlin and demonstrates how the device would work. He explains the sequence: saline self-administered, then an anesthetic, then potassium chloride to stop the heart. The presentation lays out the method that will define his early practice.

Rivlin's attempt and withdrawal

Due to the drugs' cost and sourcing difficulties, Kevorkian attempts carbon monoxide instead, but Rivlin becomes agitated, leading Kevorkian to leave the room. Rivlin is then removed from his respirator, and food and water are withheld. The episode foreshadows the ethical and legal battles to come.

Kevorkian becomes a public figure

In an interview with reporter Jack Lessenberry, Kevorkian denounces the cruelty of a painful death and argues his method would reduce suffering. He proclaims himself a 'death counselor' and begins offering his services to those seeking relief. The interview signals his transition from inventor to controversial public figure.

First patient Janet Adkins dies

Kevorkian's first patient, Janet Adkins, a 53-year-old woman from Portland with Alzheimer's disease, dies with Kevorkian's help on June 4, 1990. The case captivates the public and marks the beginning of his more active practice.

Rising notoriety and polarized debate

As Kevorkian's practice grows, his notoriety increases and public opinion becomes polarized. Supporters see him as defending autonomy and relieving suffering, while critics accuse him of playing God. The debate intensifies across communities and media.

Prosecutors begin to challenge Kevorkian

Oakland County prosecutor Richard Thompson attempts to prosecute Kevorkian but cannot secure a conviction, citing Michigan's weak laws on assisted suicide. The unsuccessful efforts fuel calls for stronger legal prohibitions. The tension between law and ethics drives Kevorkian's ongoing activities.

Election brings a tougher stance

In 1998, Thompson loses his election to David Gorcyca, a more liberal prosecutor who is reluctant to pursue cases unless the suicide is not self-administered. This political shift changes how aggressively prosecutors pursue Kevorkian's actions. Kevorkian continues offering his services while navigating the new legal landscape.

Thomas Youk's death and 60 Minutes broadcast

Thomas Youk, severely debilitated by ALS, dies on September 16, 1998 after Kevorkian administers the drugs himself. A video of Youk's death is aired on 60 Minutes during Kevorkian's interview with Mike Wallace, heightening scrutiny. The broadcast triggers a strong legal and public response.

Indictment and self-representation

Following the Youk case, Kevorkian is indicted for murder. He chooses to represent himself in the trial, a stark departure from his earlier defense by Geoffrey Fieger. The proceedings focus on the legality and ethics of assisted suicide.

Conviction and imprisonment

Kevorkian is convicted of second-degree murder and receives a sentence of 10 to 25 years in prison. He serves more than eight years before being released. The conviction cements his legacy as a controversial figure in the debate over end-of-life choices.

Supreme Court declines to hear the case

After his conviction, Kevorkian seeks review from the United States Supreme Court, but the Court declines to hear the case. The decision leaves state law as the primary framework governing assisted suicide. The legal battle remains unresolved at the national level.