Sudden death

Question 1

Coroners Act. What is their role

Answer 1

To determine cause of death
Provide authority for PM

Question 2

If the coroner determines there is no need for a PM what must they do

Answer 2

Give police 24 hours notice and not release the body before that 24 hours unless a S/Sgt agrees to that release

Question 3

Cororners - who’s responsibility is ID and what methods used

Answer 3

Police, the body won’t be released until it is identified.

Fingerprint, dental, DNA, medical records (scars etc), circumstantial evidence.

Authority of the coroner is required for non visual ID (eg DVI)

Question 4

Coroner - ID and facial recognition

Answer 4

Visual ID is the usual methof of ID
If a damaged face - can be a problem.

Question 5

Suicide - release of body by coroner

Answer 5

If a suspected suicide, the body cannot be released without the authority of the coroner.