Sudden Death

Question 1

s43 - Coroners Act - what is the restriction to release body if no PM directed

Answer 1

Coroner must not release the body earlier than 24hrs after notifying a constable of the decision

Does not apply if SSGT or above agrees with the early release.

Question 2

What is a COR 30

Answer 2

Request from coroner to police to release the body.

Police must be satisfied a PM isn’t required because there are no potential crime concerns

Question 3

What are the ID methods other than visual ID

Answer 3

Fingerprint
Odontology
Circumstances via a comparison report
DNA

Authority of coroner required for non visual ID methods

Question 4

What removes ambiguity about appropriateness of any visual ID?

Answer 4

Take a portrait facial ID photograph

Question 5

Coroners Act - Key principals when releasing information to the media

Answer 5

Coroner must be advised of the death and police intention to release deceased name.

The confidentiality and integrity of the info must be safe guarded

Info release shouldn’t draw conclusions about matters to be heard in the inquest

Release of the info as to cause of death should be released if necessary to advance investigation

If death is solely a coroner case consult with the coroner must be made before releases

Question 6

Release of deceased name

Answer 6

Usual practice to name deceased within 24hrs if deceased is identifiable and NOK have been advised

Question 7

Informing the coroner about intention to release info

Answer 7

If that info relates to cause or circumstances of the death and must be before the release is made

Question 8

Coroner should always be consulted before any information is released about a suspected suicide. Especially a youth suicide.