Security procedures for the discovery of a body.
Very often, the position and work of a security officer leads him or her to be the first person to discover a deceased person in his perimeter or perimeters of security. As security officers, we have state or federal statutory responsibilities and a legal responsibility to report such events immediately to law enforcement.
Most deaths occur by natural causes but security must be maintained around the scene. There are and will be times when the death could have been inflicted by unknown person or persons. When law enforcement officers arrive, the scene of death immediately belongs to them and they assume control of the scene and evidence.
Do Not interfere. It is important that security and law enforcement communicate.
You must report to them what you saw, who you saw, what you heard and most importantly at what time.
Your goal will be to aid verbally upon initial contact. Identify yourself, give them the required information and get out of the way.
The rules upon discovery of a body are;
Immediately verify if it's death or an injured person. Look for a pulse around the neck and wrist.
Secured the scene. Attempt to prevent family members away from the body. The word is attempt. Do not use force.
Note mentality, any odors or items out of place.
Do not move the body.
Immediately call law enforcement.
Immediately call your supervisor or director.
Notify law enforcement of any hazards in the area where the body is located.
If the property has video surveillance, do not stop recording until after the police arrive at the scene.
When law enforcement arrives identify yourself.
Give them all the requested and required information.
Do not interfere.
Law enforcement will officially confirm death.
Do not give opinions, suggestions or comments. They may make a suspect.
Step away from their work.
Remain where they can see you.
Do not make any statement to the press or reporters. Allow law enforcement to do so.
If you must go out of sight, inform an officer, remember his badge number and name.
Notification of property management must be done by your Senior Security Officer or Director.
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