Missing Person Investigations

Summary

This page outlines the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) guidance on missing person investigations for police officers in the UK. It emphasizes the necessity of initiating investigations based on risk assessments, categorizing cases from low to high risk. Officers are advised to document all actions and maintain clear communication with families, addressing cultural considerations. Key principles include early identification of high-risk individuals, thorough searches, collecting lifestyle information, and reviewing cases regularly. There are also detailed protocols for family support, media engagement, and managing the return of missing individuals, ensuring that safeguarding and investigative needs are prioritized.

Key principles

• 1Establish risk assessments immediately after receiving a missing person report.
• 2Document all actions and maintain family communication.
• 3Conduct thorough searches with appropriate resources.
• 4Utilize lifestyle information for effective investigation.
• 5Review cases regularly, especially in long-term missing persons.
• 6Involve media strategically to aid investigations.

Defined terms

Missing Person

An individual whose whereabouts cannot be established and is therefore considered to be missing.

First Officer to Attend (IIO)

The primary officer responsible for initiating the investigation into a missing person report.

Family Liaison Officer (FLO)

A designated officer who assists in the communication between the police and the family of the missing person.

Search and Rescue Teams

Specialized groups that assist in searching for missing persons, including volunteers and organizations like the Fire and Rescue service.

Gold Command

The highest level of command within the police structure governing major incidents.