Victims Flashcards
Role of O/C body
ROLE OF O/C BODY
- Ensure death has been certified by a doctor/qualified paramedic -POL265
- Maintain security and continuity of body/samples/exhibits from scene to PM
- Secure and guard body/samples/exhibits with dignity and respect
- Note/record observations relating to body
- Details of medical staff
- Actions taken in regards to body
- Ensure body photographed in Siri
- Complete sudden death procedures
- Manage formal ID using POL265A
- Obtain medical records of victim
- Ensure all cultural responsibilities met
Prior to removing body O/C should
PRIOR TO BODY REMOVAL
- Notify and response from coroner
- Views of pathologist, ESR and crown solicitor attending scene
- Consult relevant experts
- Requirement of any exam/action prior to removal
- Best method and route for body removal to minimise contamination of scene
- Chain if custody of body
- Safe custody of exhibits
- Family/cultural considerations
- What/how items of protective clothing must be used in relation to scene and body
When to strip body
Immediately before PM commences, undertaken by specific direction of OC investigation, generally after a visual exam and collection of evidence from clothed body.
O/C Body appointment
Experienced investigator with forensic awareness, where not possible o/c body may require additional support.
Assistant during PM should be considered.
Role of O/C body during PM
ROLE OF O/C BODY IN PM
- Attend PM with O/C investigation and attend briefing, contributing as required
- Ensure photographer takes appropriate and sufficient photos of body before clothing is removed/after body is disrobed and during PM - pathologist will direct the photographer
- Preserve evidence from the body
- Record, label and secure all samples and exhibits associated with body
- Arrange for fingerprints/palms if required
O/C Body taking notes during PM
Must not take any notes concerning PM unless specifically directed by O/C investigation or pathologist.
Instructions O/C Body to give photographer
Sufficient and appropriate of: body before stripped, after stripped, close up of any wounds, marks, internal injuries, unusual features (must include measuring scale).
How do pathologist findings assist case
PATHOLOGIST CASE ASSISTANCE
- Determine, where possible, mode/time of death
- How injuries and/or events at scene may have contributed to death
- Determine nature/size of weapon
- Approximate height/stature of suspect
- Negate possible defences
- ID victim if not established
At conclusion of PM O/C body hand exhibits to O/C exhibits
OC BODY TO OC EXHIBITS
- Record, label, package, seal and secure exhibits relation to body including samples taking during PM before leaving mortuary. Record in exhibit schedule.
- Provide OC exhibits with: PM scene exhibit schedule, copy of OC body notebook, FWS
When body decomposed
Fingerprints, DNA profiling, dental records, eye exam records, medical exam records (scars/birth marks), facial reconstruction, personal effects
When body has been disturbed
Do not attempt to restore scene to original
Make enquires so original scene can be subsequently reconstructed/photographed
Items to pathologist before PM
MEK, toxicology, medical records, scene photos/video recordings, POL47
