OIS Investigation Protocol Quiz
50 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Who is responsible for denying access to the scene until the OIS Investigation Team arrives?

  • The Lead Supervisor (correct)
  • The OIS Investigation Team Lead Supervisor
  • Uninvolved law enforcement personnel
  • The Case Agent

What initial action will a Supervisor take regarding potential witnesses?

  • Transport all witnesses to the police station.
  • Immediately conduct formal interviews.
  • Assign personnel to locate and identify potential witnesses. (correct)
  • Release witness contact information to the media

What information collection task is assigned to uninvolved law enforcement personnel regarding witnesses?

  • Conduct in-depth interviews.
  • Gather basic contact information and a written statement. (correct)
  • Determine the critical nature of the information possessed by each witness.
  • Collect detailed statements and their contact information.

Where should all pertinent information gathered at the scene be channeled?

<p>The Lead Supervisor. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for coordinating task assignments and communicating relevant information from the scene to the Case Agent?

<p>The Lead Supervisor. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who determines where witness interviews will take place?

<p>A Supervisor. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To whom should Supervisors defer all media requests for information or statements?

<p>The OIS Investigation Team Lead Supervisor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for collecting, organizing, and presenting all pertinent information to the OIS Investigation Team upon their arrival?

<p>The Lead Supervisor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should an Escort take if a Civilian shares OIS facts despite a request to refrain?

<p>Document the Civilian's statements in a written report. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When should an Attendant and Escort typically be relieved of their duties?

<p>Upon the commencement of the formal interview of the Officer and Civilian by the OIS Investigation Team. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for transporting the Officer for a formal interview with the OIS Investigation Team?

<p>The Attendant. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for arranging the transport of a Civilian for a formal interview, once medical treatment is obtained?

<p>A Supervisor, Escort, or the OIS Investigation Team. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many Supervisors are immediately dispatched to an OIS scene?

<p>Two, with one from the same agency as the Officer and one not. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who assumes the role of Lead Supervisor at an OIS scene?

<p>A Supervisor not employed by the same agency as the Officer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a Supervisor at an OIS scene, in regards to medical care?

<p>To ensure that all injured parties receive prompt transportation for medical care. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Escort's responsibility regarding follow-up questions with a Civilian?

<p>Not to ask follow-up questions, as the Civilian will be formally interviewed by the OIS Investigation Team. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which entity is primarily in charge of documenting weapons not discharged in an OIS incident?

<p>The OIS Investigation Team (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for scheduling an Evidence Staffing with FSD?

<p>The OIS Investigation Team (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For each OIS investigation, how many Investigative and FSD Laboratory Staffings at a minimum need to occur?

<p>One Investigative and one FSD Laboratory Staffing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who should the Case Agent notify of upcoming staffing events so they may attend?

<p>District Attorney Personnel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is solely responsible for communication with the family of a Civilian during an active investigation?

<p>The Lead Investigating Agency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After consulting with the Lead Investigation Agency, what type of information can an agency employing an officer release to the media regarding the OIS incident?

<p>Limited media release focusing on facts regarding the officer, their assignment, or agency policies that are not related to the OIS investigation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for all media releases regarding the circumstances of an OIS event during the investigation phase?

<p>The Lead Investigating Agency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a Civilian is taken to the hospital, who handles the supervision for the initial 24 hours?

<p>The Lead Investigating Agency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Officer-Involved Shooting Protocol?

<p>To guarantee a comprehensive, equitable, and unbiased investigation of officer-involved shootings. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the protocol, under what condition is an event classified as an 'Officer-Involved Shooting'?

<p>When an officer discharges a firearm and any bullet makes contact with a human being, however slight, in Wasmoe County. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT included in the protocol's formal definition of an 'Officer'?

<p>A parks and recreation officer employed by the local government. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the protocol, what defines an officer as 'On-duty'?

<p>During their normally assigned shift hours or supervisory approved overtime hours. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is always necessary to classify any event in the region as an 'Officer-Involved' shooting?

<p>A bullet from a firearm must make contact with a human, however slight. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of being 'on-duty' in the context of the OIS protocol?

<p>It classifies if an incident is covered under the OIS protocol. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the protocol, how does a bullet discharged from a non-officer result in an OIS?

<p>If the bullet makes contact, however slight, with an officer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a stated objective of the OIS Protocol?

<p>Preventing any public discourse related to OIS events. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is always required for an event to be considered an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) according to this protocol?

<p>Physical contact between a bullet and a human. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following situations would be classified as an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) Under This Protocol?

<p>An on-duty officer fires their gun and a bullet grazes a civilian in Wasmoe County. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for providing preliminary autopsy findings immediately after the autopsy?

<p>The Medical Examiner (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary on-call phone number that the Lead Investigation Agency Supervisor uses to initially contact a prosecutor during an OIS event?

<p>775.250.4210 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the primary on-call prosecutor cannot be reached, who does the Lead Investigation Agency Supervisor contact next?

<p>The prosecutor with the general on-call phone (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the District Attorney's Office in the OIS investigation process?

<p>To advise on potential legal issues, such as Miranda rights and search and seizure. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who has the responsibility to ensure all investigative materials are collected and submitted to the District Attorney?

<p>The Case Agent (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the District Attorney evaluate in the submitted investigative materials?

<p>The legality of the actions in the OIS event. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the guidelines, who determines whether sufficient evidence exists to establish reasonable suspicion or probable cause?

<p>Law enforcement personnel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of access are District Attorney Personnel permitted to OIS scenes?

<p>Timely and full access to any relevant OIS scenes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of the District Attorney not having sufficient investigative information?

<p>The District Attorney will decline from making any determination. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance would the District Attorney's review be paused?

<p>When a prosecution is initiated based on the incident and continues until its conclusion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for notifying the District Attorney?

<p>The Lead Investigating Agency Supervisor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the initial notification to Dispatch after an officer involved shooting?

<p>Officers or other first responders. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who notifies the Forensic Personnel?

<p>The OIS Investigation Team. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the protocol, who is bound by the outlined terms?

<p>The Agency Heads, on behalf of their respective agencies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the OIS Investigation Team and the submission of cases for prosecution?

<p>The OIS Investigation Team can submit cases for prosecution if they determine a crime occurred. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is true about the OIS notification process?

<p>Notifications to the listed parties should be made as soon as the tactical situation permits. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS)?

When a law enforcement officer fires a firearm and a bullet strikes a person, or when a person fires a gun and a bullet hits an officer, in Washoe County.

What is the purpose of the Washoe County OIS Protocol?

An OIS protocol is a set of rules and guidelines for investigating any incident where an officer fires a weapon and a bullet strikes a person or vice versa.

Who is considered an "Officer" in the Washoe County OIS Protocol?

Any police officer, deputy, or sworn law enforcement officer employed by any local, state, or federal agency who fires a weapon in an OIS within Washoe County.

What does "On-duty" mean in the Washoe County OIS Protocol?

Refers to any period of time when the Officer is working during their officially scheduled hours, including any approved overtime.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Escort

An individual tasked with accompanying and supporting a civilian involved in an OIS incident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Attendant

An individual with a duty to assist and support an officer involved in an OIS incident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

OIS Investigation Team

A formal investigation team dedicated to examining officer-involved shootings (OIS).

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lead Supervisor

A person who is not employed by the same agency as the officer involved in the OIS incident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisor (Same Agency)

A supervisor who is employed by the same agency as the officer involved.

Signup and view all the flashcards

OIS Facts Restriction

The process of preventing a civilian involved in an OIS from accessing any information related to the incident before a formal interview with the OIS Investigation Team.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Civilian Statement Report

A written record documenting any statements made by a civilian regarding the OIS incident before the formal interview.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Interview Commencement

The time when the formal interviews with both the officer and civilian begin by the OIS Investigation Team.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lead Supervisor's Role in Securing the Scene

The Lead Supervisor is responsible for restricting access to the crime scene until the OIS Investigation Team arrives and takes charge, as outlined in Section V of the WASHOE COUNTY OIS SHOOTING PROTOCOL.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisor's Role in Witness Gathering

A Supervisor will identify and locate potential witnesses at the scene. They will gather basic information (name, contact) and a written statement, focusing on the nature of the witness's knowledge.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisor's Role in Information Transfer

Supervisors will ensure all gathered information is relayed to the OIS Investigation Team upon their arrival.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisors as Coordinators

Supervisors will coordinate tasks such as interview locations and ensure information is shared promptly with the Case Agent.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisor's Role in Witness Interviews

Supervisors will determine appropriate interview locations based on the case's specifics, arranging for witness transportation to a police station or Sheriff's office.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Prioritizing Officer and Witness Interviews

Interviewing the involved officer and any law enforcement witnesses at the agency where they are employed is a priority.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Supervisors' Role in Family Information

Supervisors can provide families of injured or deceased victims with information about their condition, subject to the same limitations as any criminal investigation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Handling Media Requests

Supervisors will handle media requests for information and statements by directing them to the OIS Investigation Team Lead Supervisor, unless there is an urgent need for public assistance or safety concerns.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who communicates with family of the deceased?

The Lead Investigation Agency is responsible for all official communication with the family of the deceased civilian during an investigation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What information can the officer's agency release?

The agency that employs the officer can release limited information about the officer, their assignment, and agency policies. However, they cannot release details related to the OIS investigation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who handles media releases after the investigation is complete?

The Washoe County District Attorney's Office has exclusive responsibility for all media releases regarding an OIS event, the investigation, and its findings after the completed investigation is submitted for review.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who supervises the civilian at the hospital?

The Lead Investigation Agency is responsible for supervising a civilian patient at the hospital for the first 24 hours following a shooting incident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

When are weapons documented in an OIS?

The OIS Investigation Team will document any weapons that were not discharged during the incident. This action is taken when the team deems it appropriate.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who decides when to hold an evidence review?

The OIS Investigation Team will coordinate with the Forensic Science Division (FSD) to schedule an evidence review meeting whenever needed.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How does the OIS team determine what evidence to test?

The OIS Investigation Team can request lab testing on various items of evidence based on the specific details of each case.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How many meetings are required for an OIS?

There must be at least one Investigative Staffing meeting and one FSD Lab Staffing meeting for every OIS investigation. District Attorney personnel can attend these meetings as appropriate.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who receives the preliminary autopsy report?

The Medical Examiner provides a preliminary autopsy report to both the OIS Investigation Team and the District Attorney immediately after the autopsy.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How is the DA notified of an OIS event?

The Lead Investigation Agency Supervisor notifies the on-call prosecutor immediately following an OIS event. If the prosecutor is unavailable, the Supervisor then notifies the general on-call prosecutor. Once contacted, the prosecutor notifies either the District Attorney or Assistant District Attorney.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What legal support does the DA's office provide during an OIS investigation?

The District Attorney's Office provides legal guidance to the OIS Investigation Team on legal matters that arise during the investigation, such as:

  1. Elements of Crimes: Identifying the legal components of a crime.
  2. Miranda: Rights of the accused.
  3. Voluntariness: Ensuring statements were given freely.
  4. Physical evidence: Admissibility of physical items
  5. Search and seizure: Legality of searches.
  6. Possible defenses: Exploring potential legal arguments.
Signup and view all the flashcards

What decision is solely the responsibility of law enforcement?

District Attorney personnel will not provide advice on whether enough evidence exists for probable cause, as that's a law enforcement decision.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What level of access does the DA have to the OIS scene?

The District Attorney's Office has access to any relevant OIS scene. This ensures they can gather information and evidence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Where do all OIS investigation materials end up?

All reports and materials from the OIS investigation are forwarded to the DA for legal review. The Case Agent ensures all materials are collected and submitted. Once all necessary info is submitted, the DA evaluates the legality of the OIS event.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What laws are used to evaluate the legality of an OIS event?

The DA evaluates the actions taken in the OIS event using these laws: NRS 171.1455, 200.120-200.200, and other relevant legal provisions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What is the role of the District Attorney in an OIS Investigation?

The District Attorney's Office advises the OIS Investigation Team on legal matters related to crimes. They also review the investigation materials to ensure the legality of the officers' actions in the OIS event.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Missing Information & DA Decision

If crucial information is missing, the District Attorney won't make a determination for prosecution.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Prosecution Despite Protocol

Even if an OIS investigation reveals a crime, the case can still be referred to the District Attorney for prosecution.

Signup and view all the flashcards

DA Review During Prosecution

If a prosecution case arises from an OIS event, the DA's review is put on hold until the criminal proceedings finish.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who is notified first in an OIS?

Dispatchers are immediately notified about an OIS incident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who are notified after Dispatch (OIS)?

Supervisors from the same agency as the officer involved are also notified after dispatch.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who is notified by Dispatch (OIS)?

The OIS Investigation Team is also informed about the incident by the dispatch.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who is notified by the OIS Team?

Forensic personnel are alerted by the OIS Investigation Team to collect evidence at the scene.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who notifies the DA about an OIS?

The Lead Investigating Agency Supervisor is responsible for notifying the District Attorney about the OIS case.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Washoe County Regional Officer-Involved Shooting Protocol (2024 - 4th Amended)

  • This protocol ensures thorough, fair, and impartial investigations of officer-involved shootings
  • Definitions are crucial for consistent application of the protocol
  • Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS): Any event where an "on-duty" officer discharges a firearm and a bullet contacts a human being, or any event where a civilian discharges a firearm and a bullet contacts an officer.
  • Officer: A police officer, deputy, or other sworn law enforcement officer in Washoe County.
  • On Duty: An officer working their shift, approved overtime, identifying themselves as an officer in a civilian setting, utilizing law enforcement tools (handcuffs, firearms, badges etc.) in a civilian setting
  • Civilian: A person struck by a bullet fired by an officer, or a person firing a gun at an officer that strikes them.
  • Case Agent: A sworn member of the lead agency responsible for leading the investigation, informing the Homicide/OIS On-call District Attorney about investigative measures, and compiling the investigative findings.
  • Attendant: Law enforcement personnel from the same agency as the Officer, assigned by a supervisor to remain with the Officer.
  • Escort: Law enforcement personnel assigned by supervisors to remain with the civilian.
  • Supervisor: Assigned supervisory personnel from signatory agencies.
  • OIS Investigation Team: Investigators assigned to conduct the criminal investigation.
  • Criminal Investigation: An investigation to ascertain violations of criminal law.
  • Forensic Science Division (FSD): Forensic division of the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.
  • FSD Personnel: Personnel from FSD who preserve and document scenes, collect evidence, perform forensic tests, prepare reports.
  • FSD Supervisor: A member of FSD assigned in a supervisory capacity.
  • Criminalist: An FSD civilian employee who performs professional laboratory analysis of physical evidence.
  • Association Representative: A member of the collective bargaining unit.
  • Protocol-Specific: Applicable to only this protocol.

Protocol Invocation

  • Protocol is automatically invoked upon an OIS.
  • Officer or other law enforcement personnel must immediately notify dispatch, requesting medical personnel if necessary.
  • Officer will not reload firearm unless necessary for safety.
  • Body Worn Camera footage is evidence.
  • Weapon handled only in necessary, potentially dangerous situations
  • Officer and other personnel must secure the scene.
  • Other law enforcement personnel, supervisors, and the OIS Investigation Team take responsibility for scene preservation.

Procedure: Attendees, Escorts and Segregation of Parties

  • Law enforcement member from the same agency as the officer will serve as an attendant throughout the OIS proceedings.
  • Attendants are not to discuss OIS case facts with the officer.
  • Supervisor designates and Escort to accompany a civilian in an OIS.
  • Escorts cannot discuss OIS facts with the subject.

Procedure: Supervisors

  • Minimum of two supervisors are dispatched to the scene, one from the same agency as the officer , and the other from a different agency.
  • An assigned supervisor role will be lead supervisor for each OIS.
  • Ensuring protocol directives are followed.

Procedure: Lead Agency & OIS Investigation Team

  • The investigation team comprises members from agencies directly involved.
  • Supervisors from each agency will select investigators to be part of the OIS Investigation Team, based on experience.

Procedure: Forensic Personnel

  • Forensic Science Division personnel will document and process the scene, and gather evidence. FSD personnel take photographs of the scene.

Procedure: District Attorney Personnel

  • The prosecutor is to be immediately notified upon an OIS, using designated numbers.
  • Guidance and legal counsel will be offered.

OIS Notification Checklist

  • List of who to notify during the OIS (Dispatch, agency supervisors, investigation team, forensics, and district attorney).

Agreement

  • Document outlining the agreement of participating agencies to comply with the protocol.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Description

Test your knowledge on the responsibilities and procedures involved in the Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) investigations. This quiz covers crucial aspects such as witness management, information collection, and communication protocols. Perfect for law enforcement personnel preparing for OIS scenarios.

Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser