04-02 Death Investigations

Question 1

What is the Rationale?

Answer 1

The prompt and appropriate actions of police officers during the initial stages of an attempt suicide or death investigation, including the officers first on scene, supervisory officers, and divisional investigators, may assist in the quick and successful resolution of the investigation.

The scene of an attempt suicide or a death may contain such hazards as loaded firearms, poisonous gases, live Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) rails, or blood and bodily fluids from persons carrying communicable diseases. It is important that officers exercise caution, while conducting a thorough and proper investigation at such scenes.

Question 2

Supervision - Supervisory Officer attendance mandatory for

Answer 2

 suicide, possible sudden death, unnatural sudden death, suspicious death or suspected homicide
 sudden unexpected death, apparent suicide or accident where the only witness or person present at the time of death or the finding of the body is an intimate partner, past or present

Question 3

Supervision - Supervisory Divisional Detective attendance mandatory for

Answer 3

 death of a child under five (5)
 sudden unexpected death of a child
 unnatural sudden death
 sudden unexpected death, apparent suicide or accident where the only witness or person present at the time of death or the finding of the body is an intimate partner, past or present

Question 4

Supervision - Supervisory Officer notification mandatory for

Answer 4

• attempt suicide
• unable to confirm/establish identity of the deceased person
• unable to determine next of kin
• unable to notify next of kin in person
• request by another police service to notify next of kin

Question 5

Procedure - Pronouncing Death - No person, except a qualified medical practitioner, has the authority to pronounce a person dead. The only exceptions are where:

Answer 5

 death appears obvious due to decomposition, decapitation, transection, gross rigor mortis, gross outpouring of cranial or visceral contents, or a grossly charred body, or
 a base hospital physician has declared death through consultation with an on–scene paramedic.

Question 6

Procedure - Pronouncing Death - Any person who has not been pronounced dead by a qualified medical practitioner or does not fall within the above noted exceptions must be treated as a ______. Toronto Paramedic Services (Paramedics) will respond in all cases to render medical assistance as required but will not ________.

Answer 6

living patient, transport individuals pronounced or obviously dead

Question 7

Procedure - Pronouncing Death - A deceased person will only be transported by Paramedics away from public view when _______. Deceased persons will not be transported in the same vehicle as a_______.

Answer 7

a body removal service is not readily available, living patient

Question 8

Procedure - Pronouncing Death - Officers are reminded to remain vigilant for the possibility of foul play in every circumstance where there is:

Answer 8

 a sudden, unexpected death, and
 also present at the time of death or the finding of a body, a partner, and particularly a partner with whom the deceased had or may have had an intimate relationship, recent or remote.

Question 9

Office of the Chief Coroner - The Coroner will be notified and requested to attend in _______. The Coroner will be responsible for _______

Answer 9

all cases of unnatural sudden death

pronouncing death in the absence of another qualified medical practitioner and will authorize the removal of the body.

Question 10

Office of the Chief Coroner - The Coroner may be consulted in cases of sudden death by natural causes at the discretion of the ______. After pronouncement of death, the body should not be_______. However, it may be possible to allow the family early access and/or movement of the body following the initial discussion with the ________.

Answer 10

Investigating officer

touched or moved without the direction of the Coroner

Coroner regarding the circumstances of death

Question 11

Death of a Child Under Five (5) Years of Age - Every sudden unexpected death of a child or the death of a child under five (5) years of age must be

Answer 11

actively investigated as suspicious, and premature conclusions should not be made regarding the cause and manner of death until a thorough investigation has been completed. Officers SHALL comply with the applicable sections of Procedure 05–01 when conducting such investigations.

Question 12

Identification of the Deceased - The investigator heading an investigation, or a police officer designated by the investigator, SHALL attend the morgue and be physically present when a deceased is identified under the following circumstances:

Answer 12

 homicide, suspected homicide or other related criminal offences
 cases where the investigating officer has requested the presence of another officer
 cases where an inquest has been or is likely to be called
 when the Coroner believes it is necessary due to the nature of the case, or the condition of the person doing the identification.

 If the identification of the deceased can not be determined at this time, SHALL ensure that the Homicide and Missing Persons Unit (Homicide and Missing Persons) is notified via the global e-mail address at MissingPersons.

Question 13

Health & Safety Practices during Post Mortem Examinations - Officers directed to attend and obtain the results of the post mortem examination should be aware that admittance into the post mortem examination room is determined by the Medical Director of the Facility and will be granted only to those who have an essential need to be present, including:

Answer 13

 officers from Detective Operations - Forensic Identification Services (FIS) who are directly related to the case being autopsied and have a need for photographs and evidence collection
 a police officer who has direct information regarding the case and needs to be present for investigative reasons.

Question 14

Health & Safety Practices during Post Mortem Examinations - Access will be granted ONLY to officers who have

Answer 14

an operational, investigative or educational (by appointment only) need to be present.

Question 15

Health & Safety Practices during Post Mortem Examinations - Attendance should be restricted to the external examination period only unless there is a

Answer 15

pertinent, reasonable need to be present through the entire post mortem examination. An office has been set–up exclusively for officers to await the examination results.

Question 16

First Police Officer - The first police officer to arrive at the scene SHALL be responsible for

Answer 16

offender management (if applicable), preservation of the evidence and the crime scene while awaiting the arrival of an appropriate investigator.

Question 17

First Police Officer - When responding to an attempt suicide, a possible sudden death or an unnatural sudden death SHALL

Answer 17

attend the scene promptly.

Question 18

First Police Officer - Upon arrival at the scene SHALL

Answer 18

 designate a line of approach to the victim that allows for the least contamination possible
 take charge of the scene until the arrival of a supervisory officer
 in the absence of a doctor or Paramedics personnel
 assess the vital signs and responsiveness of the victim
 administer first–aid if signs of life are present while using the universal precautions as detailed in Procedure
08–07 NIP
 ensure the victim receives immediate medical attention
 request additional assistance as required
 request the attendance of a supervisory officer
 pending the arrival of a supervisory officer, assign officers to complete necessary tasks
 advise Paramedics and Toronto Fire Services (TFS) personnel of medical and suicide attempt details
 if the body has been moved, make note of the original position and any items moved to gain access to the body
 ensure the communications operator is advised of the details of the incident
 conduct a Person Query, including a CPIC and Canadian Firearms Registry On–line (CFRO) check
 determine whether any of the individuals involved in the occurrence own, possess or have access to a firearm, ammunition, firearms certificate, registration certificate, permit, licence or authorization and comply with Procedure 05–21
 Officer and public safety is compromised when firearms are left in a deceased’s dwelling and may come into the possession of an unlicensed person and/or person untrained to properly handle firearms.
 ensure a police officer accompanies the victim to hospital

Question 19

Additional Police Officers - When responding to an attempt suicide, a possible sudden death or an unnatural sudden death SHALL

Answer 19

 attend the scene promptly
 in the absence of a supervisory officer take direction from the first police officer

Question 20

Police Officers - Upon discovering
 the death of a child under five (5) years of age
 the sudden unexpected death of a child
 a suspicious death or suspected homicide, which may include
- an unexplained or unknown cause of death
- found human remains
- obvious or suspected foul play
SHALL

Answer 20

treat the death as suspicious and comply with Procedure 05–01.

Question 21

Police Officers - Upon discovering a sudden unexpected death, apparent suicide or accident where the only witness or person present at the time of death or the finding of the body is an intimate partner, past or present SHALL

Answer 21

 remain vigilant for the possibility of foul play
 request the attendance of a supervisory officer and a divisional detective

Question 22

Police Officers - When investigating a sudden death in the emergency department of a hospital SHALL ensure, as part of the investigation that hospital staff and other caregivers have not

Answer 22

intentionally interfered with or altered the body in such a way as to compromise the evidence and the investigation.

Question 23

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL

Answer 23

 request the attendance of a supervisory officer and a divisional detective
 request the attendance and confirmation of notification of the Coroner
 leave the body undisturbed when death has been pronounced or where death appears obvious due to
decomposition, decapitation, transection, gross rigor mortis, gross outpouring of cranial or visceral contents, or a grossly charred body
 The Coroner will determine when the body will be removed.
 promptly notify the Coroner, Paramedics and hospital personnel if a properly completed consent form relating to organ donation is located

Question 24

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL - record all relevant details in the memorandum book, including the

Answer 24

 circumstances relating to the finding of the body
 position and description of the body
 physical characteristics of the scene
 description of the approach to and from the body
 personal information on the deceased, including but not limited to
- name, address, date and place of birth
- occupation, marital status
- personal physician and medical history
- Ontario Health / other insurance card, Welfare number, Social Insurance Number
 name, address, occupation and relationship of next of kin
 name, address, phone number and occupation of
- the person finding the body
- all other persons present
- any persons who have left the scene
 method of suicide, if applicable
 text of any suicide note or criminal writing, if applicable
 any relevant information obtained from witnesses and other persons on scene

Question 25

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL -

Answer 25

 canvass the immediate area for any witnesses, where appropriate
 notify the Supervisory Officer if the identification of the deceased cannot be determined

Question 26

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL -
 request the attendance of an FIS investigator, where applicable

Answer 26

 A Scenes of Crime Officer (SOCO) may only be assigned to examine crime scenes at the discretion of the Officer in Charge – FIS.
A SOCO SHALL not be assigned to death investigations involving
- the sudden, unexpected death of a child
- the death of a child under five (5) years of age
- a suspicious death or suspected homicide.
When a death occurs on TTC property, an FIS Investigator or a SOCO (with approval from FIS) will photograph the scene.
request FIS to fingerprint and photograph the deceased if
 any outstanding criminal warrants exist
 an active criminal record is found
 the identification of the deceased is in question

Question 27

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL -

Answer 27

if an outstanding warrant exists, or a document relating to bail or parole is found, notify the respective unit or police service
if in a public place, ensure the area is cleaned of blood, bodily fluids, etc., when necessary
-Either TFS or Toronto Transportation Services may be able to assist.
if on private property, advise the owner or person responsible for the property to ensure the area is cleaned of blood, bodily fluids, etc., when necessary
seize and protect the suicide note or criminal writing in compliance with Procedure 05–08 when directed by a divisional detective
comply with Procedure 04–21 when collecting and seizing evidence other than a suicide note
comply with Procedure 09–01 when seizing items for safekeeping
comply with Procedure 09–04 when seizing narcotics and drugs
comply with the direction of the divisional investigator regarding the return of property to the next of kin (all NIP)

Question 28

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL - When investigating a death resulting from a scuba diving accident SHALL

Answer 28

request the attendance of the Marine Unit
comply with Procedure 04–23 NIP

Question 29

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL - When investigating a death where the deceased is found in a bathtub SHALL record in the memorandum book any of the following information that apply

Answer 29

• the approximate depth and temperature (e.g. hot, cold or room temperature) of any water present in the bathtub
• the position of the body (e.g. supine, prone or some other position)
• which end of the bathtub the head was positioned
• whether the body is wet or dry, including the hair
• whether the head is submerged at least up to and including mouth and nose
• whether the fingers and/or feet show signs of prolonged immersion
• whether there is evidence of froth in the mouth or nose
• whether the water stopper is engaged
• whether there is evidence to suggest that the deceased may have fallen into the bathtub.

 A finding of drowning is rarely based on definitive autopsy findings. Information from the initial responder is therefore often critical in these cases in determining the cause and manner of death.

Question 30

Police Officers - When investigating an unnatural sudden death SHALL - When investigating a fatal vehicle collision SHALL also comply with

Answer 30

Procedure 07–03. NIP

Question 31

Police Officers - When investigating a rail–related attempt suicide or death on railway property SHALL

Answer 31

also comply with Procedure 07– 04. NIP

Question 32

Police Officers - When responding to a rail–related attempt suicide or death on TTC property SHALL

Answer 32

 ensure the electrical power is turned off before approaching the track level
 comply with Procedure 10–10
 make every effort to restore subway service as soon as practicable
 Undue subway delays cause safety concerns and a tremendous inconvenience to the TTC and the public.
 interview and obtain the name, address and telephone number of all persons present, including the train operator

Question 33

Police Officers - When investigating a death on TTC property, upon the direction of the Coroner SHALL

Answer 33

 obtain a stretcher from under the platform, place the body and any dismembered parts on the stretcher and
remove from public view only after
 the Coroner has authorized the removal of the body, and
 the scene has been photographed, and
 a supervisor or detective has been consulted and authorized the removal of the body
 if the body must be moved prior to the scene being photographed, outline the position of the body
 Unless otherwise directed, there is no requirement to await the arrival of a detective prior to
removing the body.
 All subway platforms have rooms available, out of public view, where the body may be removed at the Coroner’s direction. This permits the TTC a timely return to service and protects the sensibilities of the public. These rooms also allow for temporary storage of the remains until such time as body removal services are available.
 ensure the area is clear before arranging for the electrical power to be restored

Question 34

Police Officers - When investigating an attempt suicide/suicide by apparent gas poisoning (natural gas, carbon monoxide, etc.) SHALL

Answer 34

 ensure that no person in the immediate area uses any item which may cause unintentional ignition, such as an
open flame, cigarette, electric switch, doorbell, cellular telephone or portable radio, etc.
 if it is safe to do so
 turn off the source of the gas
 remove the victim to fresh air
 conduct a search of the location for other persons and remove them to safety

Question 35

Police Officers - When there are concerns that a hazard continues to exist SHALL

Answer 35

 evacuate all persons in compliance with Procedure 10–09
 request assistance to evaluate the hazard
 not remain in the area
 The TFS, local utilities, and the Ministry of the Environment are equipped to remove such hazards.
 consider the notification and attendance of the Emergency Management & Public Order – Explosive Disposal Unit (EDU) in compliance with Procedure 10–08 (both NIP)

Question 36

Police Officers - .When investigating an attempt suicide/suicide by drug overdose or ingestion of poison SHALL

Answer 36

 exercise extreme caution and comply with Procedure 08-06 NIP
 Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is highly toxic and potentially lethal in small doses. As it may be skin permeable, proper handling of suspected fentanyl is essential to minimizing potential health risks for members.
 refrain from handling any container containing a poison until advised that it is safe to do so
 collect evidence in compliance with Procedure 04–21 NIP
 consult with FIS to determine if any items are to be removed from the scene
 when seizing prescription and controlled substances on behalf of the Coroner or in relation to a criminal
investigation, complete the applicable eReport including, where possible
 names of the medication located at death scene
 prescription number
 prescribed to (patient name)
 dosage instructions
 name of the pharmacy where the prescription was filled
 date of the prescription
 name of the prescribing physician
 number of pills, vials or patches, etc. prescribed and remaining
 Medications should not be taken to Forensic Pathology Units or hospital–based pathology units, unless specifically requested by the pathologist, and only following a case–by–case consideration. Medications SHALL not be placed in the body bag or otherwise sent with the body.
 comply with Procedures 02–19 and 09–04 NIP when seizing illicit drugs/substances, prescription and controlled substances pursuant to the Coroners Act, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or the Food and Drugs Act, as applicable

Question 37

Police Officers - When investigating an attempt suicide or death by gunshot SHALL

Answer 37

 comply with Procedure 05–21
 if the firearm must be moved for safety reasons, ensure detailed notes are completed regarding the condition of the firearm, including the position of the action, safety, and any ammunition
 when seizing any firearm, ensure the firearm is rendered safe and the firearm, ammunition and any ejected ammunition components are handled in compliance with Procedure 09–03 NIP

Question 38

Police Officers - When investigating a death involving suspected sabotage or tampering of food, drugs, cosmetics or medical devices SHALL also comply with

Answer 38

Procedure 05–09. NIP

Question 39

Police Officers - When investigating a death attributed to consumer products SHALL notify

Answer 39

Health Canada, Consumer Product Safety.

Consumer products may include such things as: children’s playthings and equipment; flammable items; sports equipment; household and garden items; dangerous household chemical products; and charcoal products.

Question 40

Police Officers - When the apparent cause of death is hanging SHALL remove the person in such a manner as to _______ whenever possible.

Answer 40

preserve the knot

Question 41

Police Officers - When the death is apparently caused by jumping or being thrown from a height SHALL

Answer 41

 search the area for articles of clothing, property or identification which may have fallen from the body
 search the area for body parts, if applicable
 search the location from which the person jumped

Question 42

Police Officers - When the Coroner has ordered an autopsy SHALL

Answer 42

 except in cases of homicides and criminally suspicious deaths, search the pockets and clothing of the deceased
for any illicit drugs or drug related paraphernalia
 if any illicit drugs or drug related paraphernalia are located, ensure the items are seized in accordance with
Procedures 02–19, 04–21, and 09–04, (last two NIP) as applicable
 These items create a high-risk situation for all involved and must never accompany the body sent for post-mortem examination, except in cases of homicides and criminally-suspicious deaths.
 remain with the body until the removal service has attended
 record in the memorandum book the
 presence or absence of any valuables, including jewellery
 exact position of the jewellery on the body
 details of the removal of the body
 maintain continuity by accompanying the body to the morgue or applying a TPS 214 to the body bag prior to removal to the morgue
 Bodies should always be transported and stored in the supine (face up) position pending post mortem examination to avoid introducing artefacts which may obscure post mortem findings.

Question 43

Police Officers - When the next of kin is present at the location of a natural sudden death

Answer 43

 SHALL search the deceased and list valuables and personal effects in the memorandum book
 SHALL give all valuables and personal effects to the next of kin, requesting that they sign the memorandum book in receipt
 SHALL offer the next of kin the use of Victim Services Toronto in compliance with Procedure 04–31 NIP
 where there are concerns about the well–being of the next of kin, in addition to offering the use of Victim Services Toronto, should consider contacting other family members, neighbours, friends, or clergy to assist
 where no autopsy has been ordered, SHALL ensure the well–being of the next of kin prior to leaving the scene, including assistance in contacting a funeral service
 if the deceased is obviously destitute, should advise the next of kin they may apply to Toronto Social Services
for burial or to the Last Post Fund if the deceased is a former member of the Canadian Forces

Question 44

Police Officers - When the next of kin is not present at the scene of a natural sudden death or cannot be determined SHALL

Answer 44

 remain with the body until it is removed
 search the body (in the presence of a witness, when possible) for information concerning the next of kin
 search the dwelling of the deceased for information pertaining to the next of kin
 seize valuables for safekeeping in compliance with Procedure 09–01
 comply with Procedure 09–04 (both NIP) when drugs are found or are seized
 make a record of medical information, bank accounts and insurance policies
 ensure the premises are secured until the next of kin or the public trustee is notified, or request the landlord to store large items until any of these persons are notified
 notify the Supervisory Officer
 notify the appropriate Children’s Aid Society, if applicable
 arrange for the care of pets
 notify the next of kin as soon as possible

Question 45

Police Officers - After the at–scene portion of the investigation has been completed SHALL

Answer 45

 complete the applicable eReports, including such information as the circumstances, and the persons and units notified of the death
 scan and attach all memorandum notes and hardcopy reports to the original eReport
 A Firearms Interest Police (FIP) entry is auto–generated and uploaded to CPIC from the eReport entry.The FIP database in CPIC flags an individual applying for a firearms licence who has committed, or threatened to commit, an act of violence. Such a flag is not an automatic refusal to issue a licence, but assists in the initial screening process or subsequent review by a Chief Firearms Officer.

Question 46

Police Officers - When assigned to attend a post mortem examination SHALL

Answer 46

obtain the results and add the supplementary information to the original eReport.

Question 47

Supervisory Officer - The first supervisory officer SHALL be responsible for the

Answer 47

quality and thoroughness of the uniform response.

Question 48

Supervisory Officer - When notified of an attempt suicide SHALL

Answer 48

assess the situation and attend the scene, if necessary.

Question 49

Supervisory Officer - When notified of a sudden death SHALL

Answer 49

attend the scene promptly.

Question 50

Supervisory Officer - When notified of an unnatural sudden death SHALL

Answer 50

 take charge of the scene
 provide assistance and direction to the police officers at the scene
 ensure a police officer accompanies the body to the hospital
 request/assign further assistance, as required
 ensure the attendance of
 a divisional detective
 the Coroner
 a FIS investigator
 ensure a police officer accompanies the body to the hospital
 advise the Officer in Charge of all pertinent information
 ensure a police officer has been assigned to notify the next of kin, if necessary

 Whenever possible, notification of next of kin should be made by a supervisory officer in lieu of a constable.

Question 51

Supervisory Officer - When dealing with ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SHALL treat the death as suspicious and ensure compliance with Procedure 05–01.

Answer 51

 the death of a child under five (5) years of age
 the sudden unexpected death of a child
 a suspicious death or suspected homicide, which may include
 an unexplained or unknown cause of death
 found human remains
 obvious or suspected foul play
 any other suspicious circumstances

Question 52

Supervisory Officer - When notified of a sudden unexpected death, apparent suicide or accident where the only witness or person present at the time of death or the finding of the body is an intimate partner, past or present SHALL

Answer 52

 remain vigilant for the possibility of foul play
 ensure the attendance of a divisional detective

Question 53

Detective – Division - The divisional investigator SHALL be responsible for ensuring

Answer 53

effective management of the scene, the thoroughness of the investigation, and that the appropriate notifications are made.

Question 54

Detective – Division - When notified of an unnatural sudden death SHALL

Answer 54

 attend the scene and co–ordinate the investigation
 ensure the attendance of FIS personnel, as required
 ensure that valuables seized for safekeeping are handled in compliance with Procedure 09–01
 provide direction concerning the return of valuables to the next of kin
 confer with the attending Coroner and
obtain a copy of the Coroner’s warrant;
provide the following information to the Coroner before leaving the scene
 original eReport number;
 identification of deceased and method of confirmation, if known;
 name, address, phone number and relationship of next of kin, if known; and
 name, badge number and a contact phone number of assigned investigator
 It is imperative that the Coroner is provided with a contact number of the assigned investigator in the event that additional information is required from the Service prior to the autopsy being conducted.
ensure identification of the deceased person is confirmed, if possible
add supplementary information to the original eReport listing
 method of identification confirmation; and
 name, address and phone number of the person making the identification
 when the Coroner has ordered an autopsy, ensure the following reports are completed prior to the Post Mortem Examination
 applicable eReports
 The Initial Officer Report will be automatically e-transferred to the Office of the Chief Coroner. Any requests from the Office of the Chief Coroner for additional information must be made and authorized for release by Homicide and Missing Persons.
 maintain continuity by ensuring
 a TPS 214 is applied to the body bag prior to removal to the morgue, or
 a police officer accompanies the body to the morgue
 ensure an officer attends and obtains the results of the Post Mortem Examination then adds the supplementary information to the original eReport
 consider and exercise, where applicable, all powers of search and seizure, with and without warrant, relating to weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives and the related licences, certificates or permits
 notify Organized Crime Enforcement – Integrated Gun & Gang Task Force when firearms are or may be a factor
 notify Homicide and Missing Persons via the global e-mail address at MissingPersons

 Homicide and Missing Persons is available as a resource in all unidentified human remains investigations that will provide direction, guidance, follow-up and support. Homicide and Missing Persons will also ensure all relevant information is entered on the National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (NCMPUR) website.

Question 55

Detective – Division - When dealing with ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SHALL treat the death as suspicious and ensure compliance with Procedure 05–01.

Answer 55

 the death of a child under five (5) years of age
 the sudden unexpected death of a child
 a suspicious death or suspected homicide, which may include
- an unexplained or unknown cause of death
- found human remains
- obvious or suspected foul play
- any other suspicious circumstances

Question 56

Detective – Division - When notified of a sudden unexpected death, apparent suicide or accident where the only witness or person present at the time of death or the finding of the body is an intimate partner, past or present SHALL

Answer 56

 attend the scene and co–ordinate the investigation
 conduct a thorough investigation, remaining vigilant for the possibility of foul play
 determine if there is a history of prior intimate partner violence, intimate relationship dysfunction, or anything else to arouse suspicion
 consult with the Coroner and the FIS investigator
 if suspicious circumstances exist, consult with a member of the On–Call Homicide Team prior to leaving the scene

Question 57

Detective – Division - When in receipt of a request to release a suicide note to the next of kin SHALL

Answer 57

consult with Records Management Services (RMS) – Information Access – Access and Privacy Section on the appropriate course of action.

Question 58

Detective – Division - When the deceased cannot be readily identified SHALL

Answer 58

 request that FIS fingerprint and photograph the deceased
 consider the use of the FIS Forensic Artist to complete a reconstructed image for a media release
 request that the Coroner have a dentist complete an OPC 105
 ensure the OPC 105 is scanned and attached to the original eReport
 ensure the eReport number is forwarded to RMS – Operations (RMS – Ops) for inclusion in the CPIC Dental
Characteristics file
 consider contacting FIS regarding the completion of Interpol Disaster Victim Identification forms and the gathering of samples for DNA analysis and comparison
 continue efforts to locate and notify the next of kin
 ensure identification is made by a relative, a close friend or a person who knows the deceased in the presence of a morgue official

Question 59

Officer in Charge - The Officer in Charge is responsible for ensuring an

Answer 59

appropriate uniform response and, in the absence of the detective sergeant, an appropriate investigative response.

Question 60

Officer in Charge - When notified of a suicide where there exists a suicide note or criminal writing SHALL ensure the suicide note, and any other writings made by the deceased relevant to the investigation are

Answer 60

 scanned and attached to the original eReport
 e-transferred to the Office of the Chief Coroner, along with a copy of the completed eReports.

Question 61

Officer in Charge - When notified of an unnatural sudden death SHALL ensure

Answer 61

 detective personnel are assigned and attend the scene
 a copy of the completed eReport is forwarded to the Office of the Chief Coroner as soon as practicable, and
prior to the post mortem examination
 The Initial Officer Report is automatically e-transferred to the Office of the Chief Coroner. Any requests from the Office of the Chief Coroner for additional information must be made and approved for release by Homicide and Missing Persons.
 if involving a foreign national, notify Intelligence Services – Strategic Assessment and Analysis Section
 Landed Immigrants should be considered foreign nationals as they remain citizens of the country from which they emigrated.

Question 62

Officer in Charge - When notified of ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SHALL treat the death as suspicious and ensure compliance with Procedure 05–01.

Answer 62

 the death of a child under five (5) years of age
 the sudden unexpected death of a child
 a suspicious death or suspected homicide, which may include
- an unexplained or unknown cause of death
- found human remains
- obvious or suspected foul play
- any other suspicious circumstances

Question 63

Investigator – Detective Operations - Forensic Identification Services - When investigating the sudden unexpected death of a child under eighteen (18) years of age, SHALL

Answer 63

 attend the scene and autopsy
 comply with Procedure 05–01

Question 64

Major Case Manager – Detective Operations - Homicide and Missing Persons - When designated as the Major Case Manager SHALL

Answer 64

 undertake the functions and responsibilities directed by the Ontario Major Case Management Manual
 comply with Procedure 05–01

Question 65

Compassionate Messages -

From time–to–time, it may be necessary to notify next of kin of the death of a person involved in a police investigation. Such messages are very traumatic to receive. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the notification is made in a ________ manner.

Answer 65

compassionate yet professional

Question 66

Police Officer - When it is necessary to notify next of kin SHALL

Answer 66

complete the Next of Kin Information screen page.

Question 67

Police Officer - When assigned to notify a next of kin of a death SHALL

Answer 67

 ensure the victim has been properly identified
 deliver the message in person or if unable to deliver the message in person, consult with a supervisory officer
 make every effort to contact the next of kin and deliver the information
 make every effort to leave the next of kin in the company of a support person or where appropriate, request the assistance of Victim Services Toronto

Question 68

Police Officer - When delivering a compassionate message on behalf of the investigating officer, obtain the necessary information from the original eReport, including

Answer 68

 as much information as possible concerning the deceased such as how, when and where the death occurred
 the next of kin information
 other information deemed pertinent for the notification
 the name, badge number and contact information of the investigating officer

Question 69

Police Officer - When assigned to notify a next of kin of a death on behalf of another police service SHALL

Answer 69

contact the appropriate member at the other police service to obtain the information listed in item 44.

 as much information as possible concerning the deceased such as how, when and where the death occurred
 the next of kin information
 other information deemed pertinent for the notification
 the name, badge number and contact information of the investigating officer

Question 70

Police Officer - Upon completion of the notification SHALL

Answer 70

notify the investigating officer of the results.

Question 71

Police Officer - If attempts to reach a relative/next of kin are unsuccessful SHALL

Answer 71

 notify a supervisory officer
 add supplementary information to the original eReport
 send the relevant information and the original eReport number by V–mail to the Prime handle
 RMS – Ops will create and post a BOLO.
 if the deceased person is or appears to be of Aboriginal ancestry contact the Community Partnerships and Engagement Unit (CPEU) – Aboriginal Peacekeeping section by telephone or by e–mail at “Aboriginal Peacekeeping” for assistance in locating next of kin

 Additional assistance can be obtained from members of First Nations across Canada or from social agencies dealing with Aboriginal issues. The web link to social agencies within the City of Toronto is available on the CPEU – Aboriginal Peacekeeping webpage on the Internet.
 add supplementary information to the original eReport, including the Sudden Death Detail page

Question 72

Police Officer - When it is necessary to request the notification of a next of kin by another police service SHALL

Answer 72

notify a supervisory officer and advise of the details.

Question 73

Police Officer - Upon successful notification of the relative/next of kin SHALL

Answer 73

complete the notified section of the Next of Kin Information screen.

Question 74

Supervisory Officer - When it is necessary to notify a next of kin should ensure the notification is

Answer 74

 made in person
 made by a supervisory officer in lieu of a constable
 Notification of a death as a result of a motor vehicle collision SHALL be the responsibility of the Traffic Services Supervisor. Unless deemed inappropriate, notification of a death as a result of a homicide SHALL be made by an investigating officer from Detective Operations - Homicide and Missing Persons.

Question 75

Supervisory Officer - Upon receiving a request for notification of a next of kin outside the jurisdiction of the Service SHALL

Answer 75

 contact a supervisor at the appropriate police service and provide the information listed in item 44
 if the initial contact is by telephone, follow with a CPIC message or e–mail and include the information listed in
item 44
 as much information as possible concerning the deceased such as how, when and where the death occurred
 the next of kin information
 other information deemed pertinent for the notification
 the name, badge number and contact information of the investigating officer

Providing a written request to back–up a telephone request will reduce the likelihood of incorrect information being conveyed to the next of kin.

Question 76

Supervisory Officer - When advised that notification of next of kin in person is unsuccessful SHALL

Answer 76

 ensure compliance with item 47
 notify the divisional detective to continue the effort

Question 77

Detective – Division - If the attempts of the original police officer to reach a relative/next of kin are unsuccessful SHALL

Answer 77

 ensure compliance with item 47
 continue efforts to notify the next of kin as soon as possible
 consider contacting neighbours, friends, clergy or community agencies with which the deceased had contact, in order to locate the next of kin
 consider contacting community–based ethnic, cultural and social agencies for assistance in locating and notifying next of kin
 Victim Services Toronto can assist by providing contact with these agencies.
 contact the office of the Public Trustee for assistance where no next of kin can be located

Question 78

Detective – Division - If continued efforts to notify the next of kin are still unsuccessful SHALL

Answer 78

advise the detective sergeant.

Question 79

Detective – Division - Upon successful notification of the relative/next of kin SHALL ensure compliance with item 49

Answer 79

ensure compliance with item 49

Question 80

Detective Sergeant - Division - Upon receiving information that a police officer has been unable to contact a next of kin SHALL

Answer 80

take the appropriate action to ensure that the next of kin is notified.