OC Suspects 2

Question 1

Prior to interviewing a suspect, the OC Suspects should…(9)

Answer 1

-liaise with OC Inv re: SELECTION of INTERVIEWER.
-consult with OC Inv re: most appropriate MODE of recording.
-establish the STATUS of the person as a witness, POI or suspect.
-consider SPECIAL CONSIDERATION (linguistic, cultural or religious factors, or medical condition, impairment or disability)
-consult other interviewing EXPERTS or legal advisor.
-ensure the interviewer is FULLY BRIEFED
-ensure the interviewer is familiar with the procedures in the I.I. suspects guide.
-discuss with the interviewer the ELEMENTS that need to be established, suspect’s BACKGROUND and possible ALIBIS and MOTIVES
-ensure the interviewer has a DETAILED PLAN.

Question 2

During any suspect interview, the OC Suspects must ensure that…(3)

Answer 2

-the interview is conducted in accordance with the I.I suspect guide.
-the interview is MONITORED by a supervisor or experienced detective to ensure all key points are covered.
-ensure an explanation is sought from the suspect in relation to any EXHIBITS found.

Question 3

After an arrest is made, the OC Suspects should…(4)

Answer 3

-ensure suspects are ISOLATED from each other.
-ensure that each suspect arrested is advised of their RIGHTS.
-in the case of a juvenile suspect, consider and address Police Obligations under OT Act.
-consider executing a SEARCH for EVIDENCE for the suspect’s person, vehicle, home and workplace.

Question 4

Executing a search warrant (14)

Answer 4

-establish the STRATEGY. Forensic exam? Liaise with CSC or OC Scene.
-ensure a LEGAL AUTHORITY exists.
-Arrange PHOTOGRAPHER and FINGERPRINTS.
-ensure OC EXHIBITS attends or appoint an EXHIBITS OFFICER.
-ensure if practical that the SUSPECT is PRESENT.
-search PROPERTY and VEHICLES.
-ASSESS all evidence found and ASCERTAIN its RELEVANCE.
-PHOTOGRAPH all evidence IN SITU before you seize it.
-consider FINGERPRINTS before seizure.
-exhibits must only be seized under LAWFUL AUTHORITY
-seek EXPLANATIONS from suspect re: any exhibits found. Record these and ask them to sign your notes.
-issue a RECEIPT.
ensure all exhibits are SEALED prior to removal.
-ensure exhibits officer labels, examines and records all exhibits in a schedule.

Question 5

Medical Exam for Suspect - the doctor must…(4)

Answer 5

-note any INJURIES.
-take samples as necessary using an MEK.
-swab hands for FIREARM residue.
-provide a professional OPINION re: the CONDITION of the suspect.

Question 6

Identifying details (5)

Answer 6

-fingerprints, footprints, palm prints and blood for DNA.
-photos: front face and profile, full body length, front and side, any injuries, any distinctive marks, tattoos, scars.
-handwriting sample, where relevant.
-physical description.
-record details for the offender report.

Question 7

Remanding the suspect for psychiatric assessment - a report must be sent to the court registrar describing…(5)

Answer 7

-circumstances of the arrest.
-summary of the relevant offence.
-suspect’s previous criminal history.
-suspect’s previous mental history.
-symptoms and duration of the suspect’s current mental illness, if applicable.

Question 8

In investigating any alibi offered, the OC Suspects must…(3)

Answer 8

-make enquiries of people other than the persons whose particulars have been supplied to confirm or rebut evidence in support of the alibi.
-complete enquiries to establish WHERE the suspect was at the time of the offence, WHO they were with and WHAT they were doing.
-wherever possible, seek corroboration via forensics or other independent sources.