Part 5 - Homicide and Serious Crime Victims

Question 1

Who should be appointed as O/C Body

Answer 1

Th O/C Body should be an experienced investigator with awareness of forensic issues. Where this is not possible the OC Body may require additional support and/or mentoring.

Question 2

What are the responsibilities of the OC Body?

Answer 2

The OC Body must;
1. Ensure death has been certified (Doctor or Advance Paramedic) using Pol 265 deceased person certificate.
2. Secure and guard the body, body samples and exhibits relating to the body, treat with dignity and respect.
3. Note and record observations relating to the body.
4. Note details of medical staff or others who have attended to the victim.
5. Record what actions have been taken by any party in respect of the body.
6. Establish if the body has been moved or disturbed.
7. Ensure body has been photographed, consider video.
8. Arrange transport of body to the mortuary (with approval of OC)
9. Complete 1S procedures.
10. Arrange formal ID of the deceased using Pol265A (on authority of OC investigation).
11. Obtain medical history of victim for the information for the pathologist.
12. Attend postmortem with OC or their deputy.
During post mortem
13. Attend pathologist briefing by OC.
14. Ensure sufficient photos are taken pre, during and after post mortem by police photographer.
15. Preserve evidence from body.
16. Record, label and secure all samples and exhibits taken from the body.
17. arrange for finger/ palm prints to be taken as required.
18. Attend the debrief of the pathologist and record the findings.
19. Ensure all cultural responsibilities have been addressed.