ABSTRACT
Before further analysis of the causes of suicide is undertaken, with reference to available literature and the case-studies of the primary research, this chapter considers the extent to which officer suicide is a dilemma to be confronted. It examines the availability of statistical data and its reliability. Martin Reiser draws attention to the importance of available and reliable statistical data. More than 30 years ago, Reiser attempted to identify and use statistical data to comment on the reported high number of suicides in the USA. In 1982, Reiser suggested that even when deaths have been correctly classified, to ensure statistics are available, there should be greater reporting and more details recorded of police suicides. Referring to the distinction between suicide rates and suicide risk, Violanti comments that these two issues are two distinct aspects of mortality and cannot be compared with each other. The chapter concludes by focusing on statistical difficulties that can impede research relating to officer suicide.
