55D - Line of Duty Injuries or Death - 2019

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Policy & Procedure Page 1 of 3 Lexington Police Department Subject: Line of Duty Injuries or Death Policy Number: 55D Accreditation Standards: Reference: 22.2.4; 55.2.6 Effective Date: 1/1/11  New  Revised Revision Dates: 1/24/19 By Order of: Mark J. Corr, Chief of Police GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS AND GUIDELINES From time to time, police officers are called upon to make notifications involving a death or serious injury to residents within the community. Although this is a difficult task it can be more traumatic when the notification is due to a death or serious injury of a member of the Lexington Police Department. There is a strong bond that joins members of the “police family.” When a traumatic incident occurs, the way in which the notification is handled seriously impacts the emotional well-being of the affected family, friends and coworkers. Incidents involving the death or serious injury to members of the police family act as a reminder of our vulnerability. Death notifications involving fellow employees can be particularly traumatic for the notifying officers. These officers may be haunted for years with the memories of delivering such terrible news. A debriefing with a counselor may be appropriate in some cases and should be sought through the Town of Lexington Employee Assistance Program or otherwise if needed. It is the policy of the Lexington Police Department that the next-of-kin of deceased or seriously injured officers while in the line of duty shall be promptly and considerately notified. Whenever possible, the Chief of Police shall be primarily responsible for this notification.