Chapter 2 - Sudden Death

Question 1

What deaths must be reported to Police and in turn by Police to a coroner?

Answer 1

•A death to be without known cause, suicide, unnatural or violent.
•Doctor won’t certify the death
•Occurred during medical, surgical or dental treatment
•Any death whilst giving birth or that appears to have been a result of being pregnant
A death in official custody or care

Question 2

Describe the actions a Police should take on attending a sudden death…including examining the body and the scene.

Answer 2

• Check for signs of life, if possible attempt to resuscitate, if dead call their doctor ASAP.
• Inform supervisor
• If it appears suspicious contact CIB, freeze, guard, preserve the scene until they arrive unless impractical then start to investigate.
• A duly qualified person completes verification of death verifying life extinct.
• If doctor signs off (issues a HP4720) the coroner need not be notified, but must notify NOK.

Question 3

Examination procedures - What factors should you consider that may cause death to be a result of an offense?

Answer 3

The position of the body, photograph, scene diagrams.
The Condition of the body if practicable strip and seize clothing and record & photograph any markings
Seize any ligatures, medications, drugs.
Obtain full particulars of any witnesses and obtain statement from them and person last to see the deceased.

Question 4

If the family refuse to release the body and you have not received the doctor’s documents, what action should a constable take?

Answer 4

You have the power to remove the body (with warrant) and seized evidence (without a warrant).
You must consult the duty coroner and use all means of negotiation first before invoking these powers, eg call Iwi liaison officer and Victim support.

Question 5

What steps should a constable take when someone dies in custody?

Answer 5

Immediately freeze the scene and ensure evidence including the charge sheet is preserved.
Advise supervisor who will notify CIB to attend and establish nature of inquiry required, initial any enquiry (note if force been used in an arrest, homicide procedures apply.
Ensure district commander is informed immediately – They inform Police professional conduct.

Question 6

What should you look for when you suspect a death is from a criminal act?

Answer 6

A death with no apparent cause.
Poisoning, but no known motive for suicide.
A body in burned building.
Signs of injury inconsistent with accident.
An apparent suicide in an unusual position.