ABSTRACT

Second only to deaths arising from the use of deadly force by a police officer, in-custody deaths are the most controversial incidents that an agency must face. Because such cases frequently gather unfavorable and unfair attention from the media and the public, they should be approached with the same care and thoroughness applied to homicide investigations. High-profile events, such as suicides or homicides that occur during incarceration or in the course of transport, require attention to detail in handling evidence, open communication both inside and outside the department when possible, and complete documentation. Cursory, incomplete investigations and compromise are unacceptable. The investigation process must be objective and effective from inception through completion.