Post-incident procedures following death or serious injury

Summary

This Authorized Professional Practice (APP) guidance outlines the procedures to follow when a death or serious injury (DSI) occurs following police contact. It emphasizes the need for immediate and effective investigations, ensuring that proper protocols are followed to secure evidence and maintain transparency. Key roles, such as the Force Duty Officer (FDO), Initial Investigating Officer (IIO), and Post-Incident Manager (PIM), are designated specific responsibilities to ensure prompt and thorough responses to such incidents. The APP also underscores the importance of welfare considerations for officers involved, legal guidance, and the necessity of independent oversight, as mandated by Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Furthermore, criteria for initiating a post-incident investigation and the steps needed to protect the identities of key police witnesses (KPWs) are highlighted, ensuring that individual accountability is maintained throughout the process.

Key principles

• 1Immediate notification of relevant parties is critical following a DSI.
• 2The integrity of evidence must be secured promptly and thoroughly.
• 3Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined for effective management of the investigation.
• 4Welfare support for officers involved is essential.
• 5Independent oversight is required for accountability.

Defined terms

DSI

Death or serious injury.

KPWs

Key police witnesses.

PIP

Post-incident procedure.

FDO

Force Duty Officer.

IIO

Initial Investigating Officer.

PIM

Post-Incident Manager.