Procedure 04-05 Missing Persons Investigation

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Questions and Answers

What is a mandatory requirement for all missing person investigations?

Supervisory Officer notification (correct)

Immediate media involvement

Public announcement of the case

Notification of the Chief of Police

Under which circumstances is a person considered missing?

The person has not contacted their workplace or family

A member of the police cannot locate the person after reasonable efforts (correct)

The person has not returned home for more than 24 hours

A supervisor deems the situation suspicious

What should a member do if there is uncertainty in deciding whether to classify an occurrence as a missing person case?

Dismiss the report until more information is gathered

Modify the call-type without further assessment

Contact the Homicide – Missing Persons Unit for consultation (correct)

Consult a community outreach officer

What types of considerations are irrelevant when accepting a missing person report?

The police officer’s opinion on the reportee’s credibility Signup and view all the answers

What type of report is required to be completed for every missing person occurrence reported?

A full missing person eReport Signup and view all the answers

Which criteria must be met to consider the activation of an AMBER Alert?

The investigator believes the child is under eighteen years of age, has been abducted, and is in danger. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the division in a missing person investigation?

To ensure accountability and direction for investigative follow-up. Signup and view all the answers

When does the MPU take carriage of unidentified human remains occurrences?

After thirty days from the initial discovery. Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in the maintained local resources by Divisional Unit Commanders?

Community centers, transportation facilities, and social service agencies. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a missing person case as a major case under the Ontario Major Case Management Manual?

There is a strong possibility that the missing person has been victimized by homicide or kidnapping. Signup and view all the answers

Which search level indicates that all necessary circumstances are considered before beginning the search for missing persons?

Investigation can start at any level irrespective of prior levels. Signup and view all the answers

How is the initial risk assessment for a missing person case introduced and documented?

By employing the TPS 260 and TPS 260A investigative aid forms. Signup and view all the answers

What action can police officers take under the Missing Persons Act that aids their investigation?

Make an urgent demand for records without requiring judicial authorization. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Missing Persons Unit (MPU) regarding risk assessments?

To ensure that all missing persons are treated as high-risk cases until proven otherwise. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the process of ongoing risk assessment during a missing person investigation?

It should be documented on the Risk Response Text Template and updated regularly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the division receiving a report when the missing person is not a resident of the City of Toronto and the area from which they are missing is known?

Transfer the reportee to the appropriate division responsible for the area from which the person is missing. Signup and view all the answers

In the case where the reportee is situated outside of Toronto and the missing person is a resident of Toronto, what initial action must the division take?

Transfer the reportee to the division where the missing person resides. Signup and view all the answers

When is a follow-up investigation required in relation to a missing person report?

When additional information about the missing person's whereabouts is received. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if the division receiving the initially reported missing person does not have jurisdiction over the area from which the person is missing?

Provide the eReport number to the Officer in Charge of the responsible division. Signup and view all the answers

If the area where a missing person has disappeared from is unknown, what is the protocol for the division receiving the report?

Conduct a thorough initial investigation and keep adding new information as it comes in. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if the area from which a person is missing is not identified during the initial investigation?

Assign the investigation to the most appropriate division. Signup and view all the answers

In the event a Toronto resident is reported missing in another jurisdiction, who is responsible for assigning a lead investigator?

The Detective Sergeant of the division where the missing person resides. Signup and view all the answers

Which record must be forwarded to the TPS division conducting the investigation after the initial investigation is complete?

All information obtained during the initial investigation. Signup and view all the answers

When is it required for officers to notify Intelligence Services - Security Section during a missing person investigation?

In cases that are international in nature with immediate concerns for public safety. Signup and view all the answers

What should a police officer do if a missing person is under sixteen years of age and circumstances warrant?

Advise the parent, guardian, or approved agency to apply for an apprehension warrant. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the first police officer in a missing person case?

To preserve evidence and notify a supervisory officer of all pertinent facts. Signup and view all the answers

How should information received regarding a missing person from another police agency be recorded?

In CPIC entries as required throughout the investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What step should be taken if the missing person remains outstanding at the end of the tour of duty?

Provide a detailed briefing to the relieving shift Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the divisional investigator during a missing person investigation?

Establish the command post at the last known location Signup and view all the answers

What should be highlighted during a Level 2 search and investigative response?

Areas of concern and potential hazards within the search area Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial detail to document when collecting evidence in a missing person case?

The specific method of evidence collection used Signup and view all the answers

During a missing person occurrence, who should be interviewed using a trauma-informed approach?

All identified key witnesses Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the initial investigation when dealing with a missing person case?

Interviewing the last person who saw the missing person and gathering key information Signup and view all the answers

In circumstances where the home or adjoining property cannot be searched, what is the required course of action?

Notify a supervisor and document the details in the original eReport Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured regarding the body-worn camera when managing a missing person situation?

It must be utilized in compliance with specific procedures when appropriate Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if a 300m radius search is deemed unnecessary?

Include specific details and reasons for not conducting the search in the original eReport Signup and view all the answers

When assessing the level of response for a missing person case, which factors should be considered?

Risk factors, priority areas, known hazards, and feasibility of search Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the Detective Sergeant in a missing person investigation?

To ensure appropriate investigative responses are conducted Signup and view all the answers

Which group is suggested for assistance during a missing person investigation if deemed appropriate?

Victim Services Toronto Signup and view all the answers

What should be included when transmitting a photograph of the missing person?

The photograph should be sent to platoon members and relevant units Signup and view all the answers

What step should be taken if it's suspected that surveillance recordings may be available?

Comply with Procedure 04-21 for accessing surveillance recordings Signup and view all the answers

What should be recorded during the canvassing of neighbors in a missing person case?

The TPS 233 form must be completed for each location canvassed Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Missing Person Occurrences and Priority

Missing person cases are high-risk situations requiring immediate police attention and resources.
Each report of a missing person is treated as an investigation from the outset due to potential criminality.
Guidelines outline member responsibilities for reporting, searching, and investigating missing persons.

Reporting and Investigation Protocols

Supervisor notification is mandatory for all missing person investigations.
Supervisors must attend Level 1 and Level 2 searches.
A missing person is defined as someone whose whereabouts are unknown and has not contacted relevant individuals, raising safety concerns.
Full missing person eReports are required at the time of reporting, and uncertainty must be directed to the Homicide – Missing Persons Unit (MPU) for consultation.

Non-Discrimination in Reporting

All missing person reports are accepted without bias concerning the missing person's demographics or the reportee's relationship to them.
Reports must not be dissuaded or denied based on assumptions related to age, sex, ethnicity, or lifestyle.

Major Case Designation

Cases indicating potential homicide, assault, or abduction are classified as major cases and require a Major Case Manager.
Missing persons who remain unaccounted for after 30 days are categorized as major cases for specific processing.

Risk Assessments

Missing person cases are generally treated as high-risk unless information suggests otherwise.
The initial and ongoing risk assessments guide the investigative response and are documented in the original eReport.

Missing Persons Unit (MPU) Functions

The MPU centralizes the investigative processes for missing persons in Toronto, covering both current and historical cases.
DNA collection may occur under specific circumstances to aid investigations and requires family consent for use in cases.

Resources and Community Involvement

Divisional Unit Commanders must maintain local resource lists to assist in searches, including community centers, transportation facilities, and social service agencies.
Alerts like BOLOs and AMBER Alerts are used to disseminate information quickly during missing persons investigations.

Reporting Standards

All missing persons must be recorded on the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) immediately upon reporting.
Standardized investigation processes ensure every report receives consistent handling across divisions.

Procedure for Various Reporting Scenarios

Specific actions are dictated by the relationship and location of the reportee and missing person, including who will conduct the follow-up investigations.
Multi-jurisdictional and high-risk cases require additional coordination to ensure a rapid and effective response.

Communication and Cooperation

Officers must work collaboratively within divisions to address missing person cases effectively.
Continuous updates to eReports are mandatory to reflect new information throughout the investigation process.

Legislative Framework

The Missing Persons Act, effective July 1, 2019, empowers police officers to obtain court orders and warrants to assist missing person investigations.
The National Missing Persons DNA Program provides additional resources for identification through DNA analysis.

Accountability and Victim-Centered Approach

The MPU emphasizes a victim-centered approach, focusing on support and management throughout the investigative process.
Accountability measures ensure that investigations maintain a high standard of care and thoroughness.### Missing Person Protocol Overview
The responsible division for a missing person must notify the reportee that a local police officer will attend for discussion.
A Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) message is necessary to inform the local police service of the situation and request attendance.
Required details in the CPIC message include officer's name, rank, badge number, and contact information.
All information gathered from the local police's initial investigation must be sent via facsimile to the division handling the case.

Initial Reporting Procedures

In cases where the missing person is outside of Toronto or not a resident, the reportee will be referred to the Toronto Police Operations Centre (TPOC).
The TPOC aims to identify the area of origin for the reportee and transfer them to the responsible division.
If the area is indeterminate, the TPOC assigns the investigation to the appropriate division while keeping the reportee updated.

Investigation Responsibilities

The division handling the case must carry out an investigation and continue collecting relevant information until the individual is located.
If leads indicate the missing person is in another jurisdiction outside Toronto, the report must be forwarded to the relevant police service immediately.
When a Toronto resident is reported missing in another jurisdiction, a lead investigator is assigned to ensure cooperative investigation efforts.

Child Apprehension Warrant Protocol

For missing individuals under 16 years old, officers must inform guardians about applying for a Child Apprehension Warrant if circumstances warrant.
Upon receiving such a warrant, it must be scanned and attached to the original eReport, with notification sent to ensure proper entry into CPIC.

International Investigation Procedures

For missing persons cases that cross international borders or involve public safety risks, inform Intelligence Services - Security Section.
Other international case inquiries should be made through the Missing Persons Unit (MPU), which may involve assistance from Interpol.

Initial Officer Responsibilities

The first responding officer is responsible for evidence preservation, report completion, and supervisory notification.
The officer must utilize a trauma-informed approach and interview the last known person to see the missing individual.
Comprehensive descriptions, including clothing and potential vulnerabilities, must be gathered and reported.

Search and Communication Protocols

Home and immediate area searches should be thorough, with documentation of any search refusal.
All pertinent information, including missing person descriptions, should be relayed promptly to communications for action.
Neighbors should be canvassed for information using a pre-designed questionnaire, and each interaction documented.

Supervisory Officer Duties

Upon notification of a missing person, the supervisory officer ensures reports are completed and proper response levels are assessed.
Coordinated search strategies should be implemented, including a 300m radius search from the last known location, if deemed necessary.

Division Investigator and Detective Sergeant Roles

The divisional investigator must review investigations, request and gather evidence (photographs, fingerprints).
The Detective Sergeant oversees the response, ensuring communication between involved divisions and thorough reporting of investigative efforts.

Documentation and Coordination

Constant updating of the eReport is crucial to documenting investigations accurately.
Investigators should use strategic communication plans, potentially leveraging social media and the media for wider awareness and assistance.
All evidence and investigative steps should be properly recorded and attached to the eReport for future reference.

Form and Procedure Compliance

Procedures for urgent record requests should follow established protocols, with necessary forms completed and submitted timely.
Notifications and updates about any ongoing investigations must be consistent with protocol to ensure accountability and thoroughness in searches.### Missing Persons Protocol Overview
MPU Coordinator must be contacted for posting missing persons bulletins outside business hours.
Bulletins must be posted in the Service Wide area of the application.
Communications Services should be informed immediately to alert all members of the posting.
Complete the Risk Response Text Template as necessary.

Protocol for Missing Persons Under Sixteen

Compliance with item 5 is mandatory.
All search team members must be notified of the escalation in search level.
Contact the school principal as soon as possible.

Crime Victimization Concerns

Assign a Major Case Manager for investigations when crime victimization is suspected.
Major Case Manager must adhere to the Ontario Major Case Management Manual.

Investigative Responsibilities

At Level 1 searches, officers must follow established protocols.
Divisional investigators must conduct thorough investigations and attend the scene of the case.
Required to collect information such as photos, dental records, and DNA samples immediately.

DNA and Evidence Collection

Obtain personal items for DNA analysis from the family swiftly.
Family reference DNA samples must also be collected and documented properly.
RCMP Forms A01 and A02 need to be completed and attached to the eReport.

Relevant information may be communicated on social media in compliance with procedures.
Consider media assistance and notify Corporate Communications about the situation.

Levels of Missing Person Search

Level 3 Search: Minimal concern regarding victimization.
Level 2 Search: Involves individuals under sixteen, known vulnerabilities, or those over 65.
Level 1 Search: Escalated response due to ineffective previous search levels or urgent circumstances.

Major Case Manager Duties

Major Case Managers manage investigations according to the Ontario Major Case Management Manual.
Require knowledge and training consistent with the Ontario Police College standards.

First Response Upon Location

Investigators must physically verify the missing person’s location and safety before closing the case.
Notify relevant parties, including Communications Services and the search management team.

Documentation and Communication

Document all investigative efforts thoroughly in the eReport.
Return any items seized for analysis where applicable.
Ensure notification of the missing person's confirmation status to necessary departments.

Missing Persons Definitions

The term "Missing Person" refers to individuals whose whereabouts are unknown, with fears for their safety.
AMBER Alert system is notified when young persons are believed to be abducted or at risk of serious harm.

Roles within the Investigation

Officer in Charge: Ensures a uniform response and appropriate investigatory action.
Duty Inspector: Responsible for resource allocation and escalation decisions.
Search Manager: Coordinates the search efforts and maintains communication throughout the operation.
Detective Sergeant: In charge of the investigative strategy and assignment of detectives.

Final Considerations

Missing Persons Coordinator is responsible for all procedural conformity and resource linkage.
Continuous follow-up and documentation are required until cases are resolved or sufficiently concluded.
In cases where a person remains missing after 30 days, the investigation must be reassessed with ongoing follow-up.

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Description

This quiz covers the protocols established by the Toronto Police Service for handling missing person cases. It outlines the responsibilities, guidelines, and investigation priorities that law enforcement must adhere to when reporting missing persons. Understanding these procedures is crucial for effective policing and ensuring the safety of individuals.