NCJ Number
192907
Date Published
1999
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This report presents the policy of the Norman Police Department (Oklahoma) regarding the services provided in cases of line-of-duty officer death or injury, as well as the policy for the departmental response to personnel who require mental health services.
Abstract
The purpose of the policy for line-of-duty deaths or injuries is to provide direction for the department in providing appropriate emotional care for the seriously injured, ill, or deceased officer's family. If the incident is the death of an officer, funeral arrangements are to be decided by the family of the officer, with their wishes taking precedence over those of the agency. The policy states that the department is responsible for providing liaison assistance to the immediate family of an officer who dies in the line-of-duty or who is hospitalized for an indefinite period of time or requires repeated, intermittent hospitalization because of a line-of-duty injury or systemic illness. This assistance shall include, but not be limited to, the clarification and comprehensive study of survivor benefits and emotional support during this traumatic period for the surviving family. It is the responsibility of the subject officer's supervisor to notify the Chief of Police of the incident as soon as possible. Immediately upon notification of the incident, the Chief of Police shall appoint an officer in charge (OIC), typically the involved officer's bureau or division commander, to coordinate all departmental functions regarding the incident. This policy statement specifies the tasks of the OIC and details procedures for death notification, assisting the family at the hospital, support for the family during a wake or funeral, and providing information and assistance regarding benefits to the surviving family in the event of a line-of-duty death. The policy regarding mental health services for employees pertains to counseling and support services that encompass professional mental health services, peer support services, external support services, notification of support personnel, and defusings or debriefings. Appended descriptions of benefits and/or assistance that may be available to the surviving family