Sudden Death

Question 1

S43 Restrictions on release if no post mortem directed.

A coroner who decides not to direct a pm must NOT authorise the body to be released earlier than when?

Answer 1

24hours after notifying a Constable.

This does not apply if senior or above agrees to the coroner releasing within that 24 hour period.

Question 2

What’s the main consideration on whether a COR30 is to be signed by police?

Answer 2

Are the police satisfied a post mortem is not required because there are no potential crime concerns.

Question 3

Rule of thumb re visual identification of the body.

Answer 3

If the person does not look like death as they did in life - visual identification is not appropriate. Non visual identification methods are required.

Question 4

What’s the hierarchy of identification of deceased?

Answer 4

1 Visual ID

2 Fingerprints

3 Ondontology (Teeef)

4 Comparison ID (SAR)

5 DNA

Question 5

Media and death. It is the coroners role to determine circumstances of death and not appropriate for police to make comment. What should you do if approached?

Answer 5

Seek advice from media team

Consult with the responsible coroner in cases where police wish to make comment in relation to an active coronial investigation.