MODEL POLICY
SERIOUS INJURY AND DEATH RESPONSE
JAUARY 2012
1
Table of Contents
Item
Definitions
Serious Injury, Medical, and Death Urgent Notifications
Flags to Half Staff
Safeguarding of Personal Effects
Geographical Distance Guidelines – Police Services Provided
Death Retired Members (Sworn Officer)
Death Active Members (Not in the line of duty)
Death - Line of Duty (Sworn Officer)
Death Police Department Civilian (Active)
Death Police Department Civilian (Retired)
Death of an Active (Sworn) Members Family Member
Death of an Active or Retired (Non Sworn) Family Member
Death of Retired Members Immediate Family (Sworn)
Death of an Active Member from Suicide
Death of a Law Enforcement Service Animal
Death of a Retired Member from Suicide
Police Department Actions – Uniform/Chiefs Control
Mourning Bands
Tributes
Funeral Event, Chaplain, Family Advocate, and Honor Guard Duties
Traffic Commander Responsibilities
Hospital Procedures-Seriously Injured/Death-Employee
National Law Enforcement Memorial
Contingencies and Unforeseen Circumstances
Appendix A – Funeral Management Team
Appendix B – Notification Procedures
Appendix C – Military Honors
Appendix D – Benefits Coordinator Reference
Page
Number
3-4
5-6
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7
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7-8
8
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8-9
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9
9
10
10
10
11
11
11-12
12
12-13
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13-14
15
16-17
18-23
24-27
Section
I
IB
IC
IIA
IIB(1)
IIB(2)
IIB(3)
IIB(4)
IIB(5)
IIB(6)
IIB(7)
IIB(8)
IIB(9)
IIB(10)
IIB(11)
III
IIIC
IIID
IV
V
VI
VIII
IX
-
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PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to establish uniformed responsibilities and procedures for Police
Departments located within Camden County when confronted with the death of a member of
their police agency, the death of a member's immediate family member, or when a member of
their police agency suffers a serious injury or serious medical incident. The intent of this policy
is to express respect and bereavement for the seriously injured, critical ill, or deceased and
extend sympathy toward family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers and civilian
employees. The desires of the family must always be considered before those of the law
enforcement community as there can be many reasons why a family may decline to have a police
presence at a time of critical injury, illness, or death.
POLICY
It is the policy of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department that all officers will adhere to the
procedures as described in this policy. Officers and employees of the (Insert Agency Name)
Police Department shall familiarize themselves with this policy and request assistance from their
supervisor if they should be in need of further explanation or training regarding this policy.
This policy distinguishes numerous categories of law enforcement related deaths and injuries and
details a general standardized funeral/memorial response for each category. The standardized
response has been developed as a guide for the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department and
ultimately it is the Chief of Police of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department who may
decide to modify the standardized response as he/she deems appropriate.
DEFINITIONS
1. Retired Member Death: A member of the police department who is in good standing and
separated from the department. The member can be either sworn or civilian.
2. Active Member Death: A member of the police department who is actively employed and
in good standing, and dies as a result of illness, injury (not self-inflicted), or accident
sustained while off duty.
3. Line of Duty Death: The death of an active duty officer by criminal or accidental means
during the course of performing police functions while on or off duty.
4. Suicide Death: An active or retired member of the police department who purposely takes
his/her own life.
5. Funeral Event Commander: A sworn law enforcement officer assigned by the Chief of
Police to oversee all operations of the funeral event. Depending on the size of the agency
the Funeral Event Commander may be the Chief of Police. Additionally, depending on
the size of the agency and the type of death all of the functions associated with this policy
may be performed by the Funeral Event Commander. In some instances, The Funeral
Event Commander may not need to attend the funeral itself but shall ensure the police
services listed in this policy are provided. The Funeral Event Commander shall assign
personnel and tasks utilizing the National Incident Management System whenever
possible and appropriate.
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6. Honor Guard Commander: An officer who has been assigned by the Funeral Event
Commander to coordinate all honor guard duties and other duties as specified in this
policy.
7. Family Liaison Advocate: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to
coordinate with the family to gather pertinent information, escort them, obtain
belongings, logistical support, and assist them with any pertinent needs.
8. Traffic Safety Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to
plan the funeral route if necessary, facilitate transportation needs, coordinate other police
agencies arrival, coordinate with the CCCPA Mutual Aid Coordinator for traffic control
needs, and coordinate parking of attendees.
9. Communications Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to
coordinate multi-agency communications.
10. Operations/Security Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander
to ensure adequate security measures are in place at the funeral site, church, along the
funeral route, cemetery, and deceased members home. Such security measures shall
include dignitary protection/coordination as necessary.
11. Next of Kin: The closest relative of the deceased member to include spouse, children,
parents, siblings, fiancée, or significant others.
12. Immediate Family: Surviving spouse, domestic partner, child, or parent
13. Camden County Chiefs of Police Association (CCCPA) Funeral Management Team: A
designated group of law enforcement officials and other members who are experienced in
managing law enforcement funerals. The Funeral Management Team shall assist the
Funeral Event Commander or assume the duties if desired and approved by the Chief of
Police of the respective police department. The Chief of Police of the police department
which experienced a death may request the Funeral Management Team by contacting the
Mutual Aid Coordinator of the Camden County Chiefs Association. The Mutual Aid
Coordinator shall then contact the Camden County Chief’s Association Funeral
Management Team Liaison listed in Appendix A of this policy.
14. Benefits Coordinator: The benefits coordinator is responsible for working with the
survivors to ensure that all necessary claim forms are filed in a timely fashion and to
guarantee that the survivors are aware of all benefits to which they are entitled. The
Benefits Coordinator is assigned by the Chief of Police and is often an employee of the
Human Resources Department. See Appendix D for tasks often completed by the
Benefits Coordinator.
15. Public Information Officer: The PIO shall serve at the direction of the Chief of Police or
upon his direction the Funeral Event Commander to provide information concerning the
funeral event, benefits, details of the incident relating to the death if appropriate, and
dissemination of information to other law enforcement agencies.
16. Serious Injury: Bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes
serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any
bodily member or organ.
17. Critical Medical Incident: A medical incident where a member is at risk of death or has
suffered a sudden medical incident requiring emergency admittance to a hospital.
18. Rank Order: When so directed to assemble at a funeral by order of rank or precedence,
personnel shall assemble by superior rank in descending order, patrol officers in the
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specified uniform if so ordered by seniority, patrol officers non-uniform, patrol officers in
civilian attire, retired sworn officers, active civilian personnel, retired civilian personnel.
I.
Notification of Serious Injury/Critical Medical Incident/Death
A. Notification of Death, Serious Injury and Sudden Critical Medical Incident
1. The Chief of Police shall be notified immediately upon the death, or serious
injury, or critical medical incident consistent with (Insert Agency Name)
Department existing procedures and protocols.
2. The Chief of Police or his designee shall ensure that the Police Chaplain (if
available), Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (if available, and/or Cop 2 Cop.
Representatives are notified immediately of the death, serious injury, or critical
medical incident of an active member.
3. Notification of the death of a member in the line of duty shall be made to the
family as soon as possible by the Chief of Police or his designee consistent with
(Insert Agency Name) Department departmental procedures and protocols,
Appendix B of this policy, and The New Jersey Attorney General’s Directive
addressing death notifications.
4. The Chief of Police shall ensure that the designated police fraternal organization
leader bargaining unit leader or union leader is notified immediately when an
active member suffers a death, serious injury, or critical medical incident.
5. The on duty supervisor of the (Insert Agency Name) shall ensure the New Jersey
State Police Regional Information Operations Center (ROIC) is immediately
notified of the line of duty death of an active sworn member.
6. The Chief of Police or his designee shall determine if notification to the ROIC is
appropriate when an active sworn member dies or suffers a serious injury in the
line of duty.
7. The Chief of Police of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department shall ensure
that prompt notification is made to the President of the Camden County Chief’s
Police Association Regarding the death or serious injury of an active law
enforcement officer of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department.
8. The Chief of Police of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department shall ensure
that timely notification is made to the President of the Camden County Chiefs
Police Association when it is learned that an active law enforcement officer has
suffered a critical medical incident. The wishes of the ill officer shall be of
primary concern and if privacy is preferred by the officer and his family then no
such notifications shall occur.
9. The Chief of Police of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department shall
determine if it is appropriate and beneficial to the law enforcement community at
large to notify the President of the Camden County Chiefs Association of the
death, serious injury or critical medical incident of a retired employee or law
enforcement service animal.
10. The Chief of Police of the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department shall ensure
that appropriate notifications of the death or serious injury are made as
appropriate to other law enforcement agencies utilizing standardized
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communication methods such as NCIC, TRAK, Email Groups, etc. The Chief of
Police shall utilize the PIO when possible or appropriate. The Chief of Police or
the Funeral Event Commander shall continue to utilize the PIO whenever possible
to inform the law enforcement community and the public of funeral details as
appropriate.
11. The Chief of Police shall ensure timely and appropriate notification is made to
known organizations in which the employee is or was a member of or employed
by. These shall include organizations such as but not limited to: fire departments,
police departments, government entities, civic organizations, religious groups,
reserve military units, etc.
12. The Chief of Police shall ensure that information concerning the death of an
active member, retired member, or active or retired member's immediate family is
disseminated to active members and retired members of the (Insert Agency
Name).
13. The Chief of Police shall ensure that prompt notification is made to the
representatives of the Camden County Hero Scholarship Fund so they may begin
to offer support and services to survivors.
B. Flags Lowered to Half Staff
1. In the event of an active death of a member of the (Inset Agency Name) Police
Department the Chief of Police will request permission from the Mayor to fly the
Municipal flags at half-staff and other buildings as appropriate and when so
detailed in Section II of this policy. (Fire Departments, etc.)
C. Safeguarding of Personal Effects
1. If appropriate, the supervisor at the scene of the death or serious bodily injury
shall be responsible to safeguard the deceased member’s effects until turned over
to such person as designated by the Chief of Police. Internal Affairs personnel for
the securing of personnel effects whenever possible.
2. The Chief of Police shall designate a person to return personal effects to the
family, and make arrangements to collect department issued equipment at the
appropriate time. This person may be the Family Advocate or another person as
determined by the Chief of Police. When Internal Affairs personnel has secured
the personal effects the release of such effects to the family or to the police
representative releasing the effects to the family shall be supervised by Internal
Affairs personnel.
II.
Services and Actions Relating to Specific Situational Deaths/Injuries
A. Geographical Distance Guidelines
1. The following services, honors and representation shall be provided to all
members who live within a 100 mile radius of the (Insert Agency Name) Police
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Department and who qualify for services as per this policy. It shall be the
discretion of the Chief of Police to make exceptions or changes to any services of
representation listed in this policy.
B. Member Classifications
1. Retired Members Death (Sworn Officer) Department Representation
a. Assignment of Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Police
b. Assignment of other support personnel as necessary
c. Honor Guard Compliment to be set by the Honor Guard Commander
d. Uniformed Pallbearers if desired by the family
e. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within this agency’s
jurisdictional boundaries or when directed by the Chief of Police
f. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
g. Police member visitation in rank order when appropriate
2. Active Members Death- Not in the Line of Duty (Full Time Sworn Officer)Department Representation
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Police
b. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate
c. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator
d. Assignment of a Public Information Officer
e. Assignment of a Traffic Services Commander
f. Assignment of a Operations/Security Commander as necessary
g. Death announcement via police radio prior to funeral
h. Police member rank order visitation as appropriate
i. Request, if necessary, activation of the Camden County Chiefs of Police
Funeral Management Team
j. Honor Guard Compliment to be set by the Honor Guard Commander
k. Uniformed Pallbearers if desired by the family
l. Police Escort/Full Intersection Traffic Control when within this agency’s
jurisdictional boundaries or when directed by the Chief of Police
m. Mourning bunting on building
n. Mourning Bunting on Police Vehicle/Desk/Locker if appropriate
o. Last call for service police radio broadcast (Chief’s discretion)
p. Police Bugler/pipe band (Chief’s discretion)
q. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
3. Line of Duty Death (Sworn Officer) Department Representation
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Police
b. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate
c. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator
d. Assignment of a Public Information Officer
e. Assignment of a Traffic Services Commander
f. Assignment of a Security/Operations Commander
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g. Request, if necessary, Activation of the Camden County Chief s of Police
Funeral Management Team
h. Full Honor Guard compliment
i. Death announcement via police radio prior to funeral
j. Uniformed pallbearers if desired by family
k. Police Escort with complete intersection control
l. Police bugler and pipe band
m. Firing squad/rifle volley
n. American Flag folding and presentation
o. Tribute vehicle and mourning bunting
p. Aviation unit fly over request
q. Last call for service police radio broadcast at gravesite
r. Mounted horse unit with rider less horse and reversed boots
s. Full Military Honors (Additional Details in Appendix C)
t. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
u. Special Circumstances
1. Commendation of Valor or Distinguished Valor Recipients and Active
Chief of Police in Good Standing will receive a Formal Police Funeral
with Military Honors
4. Police Department Civilian Personnel (Active)
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander
b. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator as necessary
c. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate
d. Assignment of other support functions as necessary
e. Request, if necessary, Activation of the Camden County Chiefs of Police
Funeral Management Team
f. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies
jurisdictional boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police
g. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted a the entrance to viewing/funeral
h. Death announcement via police radio prior to funeral
i. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
5. Death of Police Department Civilian Personnel (Retired)
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander
b. Assignment of other support functions as necessary
c. Police Escort/Limited Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies
boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police
d. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
6. Death of an Active Sworn Member’s Immediate Family
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander
b. Assignment of a Family Advocate
c. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator
d. Assignment of a Traffic Commander
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e. Assignment of other support functions as appropriate
f. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies
jurisdictional boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police
g. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted at the door of the funeral/viewing
h. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
7. Death of an Active or Retired (Non Sworn) Member’s Immediate Family
a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander and other support functions as
necessary
b. Police escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies boundaries
or as approved by the Chief of Police
c. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
8. Death of a Retired Members Immediate Family (Sworn)
a. Notification to other agencies, fraternal organizations, union leaders, and the
CCCPA as determined by the Chief of Police
b. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander and other support functions as
necessary
c. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies
boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police
d. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
9. Death of an Active Member from Suicide
a. No criminal charges pending against the member or ongoing criminal
investigation
1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander
2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate
3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator
4. Assignment of other support functions as necessary
5. Wearing of mourning bands as described in Section IIIC
6. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies
jurisdictional boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police
7. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted at entrance to viewing/funeral
8. Uniform optional for police members. For those who select to wear
uniform (Insert agency specific uniform type)
b. Criminal charges pending against the member or an ongoing criminal
investigation with the deceased as a subject officer.
1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander
2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate
3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator
4. The wearing of mourning bands is not authorized
5. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals
6. Uniform: Not authorized for personnel attending or to be worn by the
deceased.
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10. Death of a Law Enforcement Service Animal
a. Active service animal member in the line of duty
1. Notifications consistent in this policy with those of a law enforcement
officer killed in the line of duty
2. Assignment of a Funeral Event Coordinator
3. Assignment of a Public Information Officer
4. Assignment of other support functions as appropriate
5. Modified Full Military Honors as determined by the Chief of Police
6. Mourning bands as described in section III(C)(2)
7. Uniform: (Insert agency specific uniform type)
b. Active service animal member natural causes
1. Determined by the Chief of Police of (Insert Agency Name) Police
Department
c. Retired service animal member
1. Determined by the Chief of Police of (Insert Agency Name) Police
Department
11. Death of a Retired Member from Suicide
a. No criminal charges pending against the member or ongoing criminal
investigation
1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander if determined necessary by
the Chief of Police
2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Officer if determined necessary by the
Chief of Police
3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator if determined necessary by the
Chief of Police
4. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals
b. Criminal charges pending against the member or an ongoing criminal
investigation with the deceased as a subject officer.
1. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals and within
jurisdictional boundaries if necessary for the safety of the community and
as determined by the Chief of Police
III.
Police Department Actions- Uniform/Chief’s Control
A. The Chief of Police or designee shall be responsible for coordinating all funeral
arrangements with the Funeral Event Commander in the event of a member’s death or
death of an immediate family member.
B. Other Jurisdictions: Department representation for other jurisdictional police
employees.
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1. The Chief of Police may at his discretion authorize the following:
a. Department personnel to attend funeral services as representatives of the
(Insert Agency Name) Police Department
b. Department motor vehicles as escorts
c. Assistance as requested
C. Mourning Bands are authorized to be worn during the following times:
1. May 15th in honor of National Peace Officer’s Memorial Day or any other day
defined as National Peace Officers Memorial Day
2. Officers killed in the line of duty or on active duty from surrounding jurisdictions
from the time of death until 2400 hours the day of the funeral as directed by the of
Police or his designee
3. Active or retired sworn members of the police department from the time of death
until 2400 hours on the 10th day after the funeral
4. Active civilian members of the police department from the time of death until
2400 hours on the 10th day after the funeral
5. In the line of duty members of the police department from the time of death until
2400 hours on the 30th day after the funeral
6. Any special circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Chief of Police
D. Any form of tribute or memorial involving the Police Administration Building,
municipal/borough building, police motor vehicle, police uniform, police emblem,
police agency, or tribute containing the deceased’s name must be authorized by the
Chief of Police.
1. If authorized, the tribute vehicle and mourning bunting will be on display where
appropriate at the viewing and funeral ceremonies.
2. The tribute vehicle will remain on display until 2400 hours the day of the funeral.
3. Mourning bunting will remain on display until 2400 hours the 10th day after the
funeral.
IV.
Funeral Event Commander, Police Chaplain (if applicable), Family Liaison Advocate,
and Honor Guard Commander Duties
A. When assigned to a funeral detail or funeral incident by the Chief of Police the
Funeral Event Commander, Police Chaplain, Family Liaison Advocate or Honor
Guard Commander shall ensure the following actions are taken. It is the
responsibility of the Funeral Event Commander to assign the tasks to the respective
individuals or personnel and ensure their completion as appropriate.
1. Interview the family or representative concerning funeral arrangements,
explaining what personnel are available and describing what type of funeral
ceremony and internment can be arranged.
2. Ascertain from the family the following information:
a. A history of the deceased, including names and addresses of survivors
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b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Membership in fraternal or service organizations
Time, date and cause of death (if known)
Name and address of the funeral director
Time and place of viewing
Time and place of services
Place of internment
History of employment information and accomplishments
3. Coordinate with the funeral director, the participation of the uniformed members
of the police department
4. Ensure updated notifications to Fraternal Order of Police/PBA leadership as
appropriate
5. Ensure updated and appropriate notifications to Police Associations and Police
Organizations as applicable
6. Continue to provide the Public Information Officer with the details provided by
the family and any additional information about the incident necessary for a
Media Releases and other broadcasts as appropriate
V.
Traffic Commander Responsibilities
A. Prior to the funeral date the Funeral Event Commander and Honor Guard Commander
will approve the survey plan developed by the personnel assigned to develop the
funeral route and traffic safety plan. The plan will include the site of the funeral
home, church, home of the deceased and cemetery. The plan will also coordinate
parking arrangements, direction of traffic at the location of services, and traffic
intersection posts along the procession route.
VI.
Hospital Procedures- Seriously Injured/Death-Employee at Hospital
A. The primary purpose of department officers at the hospital is to provide support and
assistance to the family of any officer seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.
The chief of police, or next highest-ranking officer in his absence, shall join the
family upon his arrival at the hospital to express the agency’s support. The next
highest-ranking office shall assume responsibility for the following:
1. Ensure that arrangements are made to establish waiting facilities in a
private area for use by the injured or deceased officer’s immediate
survivors. Access to this area shall be strictly limited to persons
having a reasonable need to enter and those requested by the family.
2. Instruct medical personnel to report pertinent medical information on
the officer’s condition to the family before any other parties are
notified.
3. Designate a separate media staging area and assign a PIO as the
primary point of media contact.
4. Assist family officers in accordance with their desires and hospital
policy in gaining access to the injured or deceased officer.
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a. If a possibility exists that the family may be able to visit
with an officer prior to his death, they should most
certainly be afforded that opportunity.
b. The family members should be made aware of what
they may see in the emergency room/trauma unit and
shall be accompanied at all times if so requested.
5. Provide hospital personnel with all necessary billing information for
the medical services being rendered. The bills shall be directed to
the (Insert Agency Name) Police Department through the worker’s
compensation insurance carrier and not the officer’s personal home.
6. Officers shall avoid idle promises or false misleading statements to
the family, such as "We'll retire his/her badge," "We'll promote
him/her", or suggesting medications or sedatives.
7. Confer with a representative of the law enforcement agency
providing primary police service in the jurisdiction where the
hospital is located.
8. Greet any officials arriving to show support to the family.
9. Ensure that the family is promptly made aware of new developments
concerning the incident that gave rise to the officer’s injury or death.
10. Provide for the constant presence of an officer of the notification
delegation to provide assistance as needed and to transport the
family home when appropriate.
11. Obtain all personnel effects of the deceased for return to the family
at a later time in accordance with I(C) of this policy.
VII.
Benefits Coordinator Duties
A. See Appendix D
VIII.
The National Law Enforcement Memorial
A. The National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., tracks all law
enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The names of all officers killed in the
line of duty for the calendar year are dedicated on National Peace Officers Memorial
Day of the following calendar year.
B. Applications for the National Law Enforcement Memorial can be obtained by calling
the Washington Office at (202) 737-3400.
IX.
Contingences and Unforeseen Circumstances
A. Officers are occasionally confronted with situations where no written guideline exists
and supervisory advice is not readily available. As it would be impossible to address
all possible situations with written guidelines, considerable discretion is given to the
officer handling the situation.
B. Faced with need to make decisions or take an action where no guidelines exist,
officers should rely on their experience and training, and the following resources:
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1.
2.
3.
4.
Attorney General guidelines, memorandums and directives.
Departmental General and Special Orders
New Jersey Title 39 and 2C
Current search and seizure directives
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Appendix A
Camden County Chiefs of Police Association
Funeral Management Team
Chiefs Association Liaison:
Chief Harry Earle
Gloucester Township Police
1261 Chews Landing Road
Laurel Springs, NJ 08021
Headquarters: (856) 228-4500
Office Direct: (856) 374-3505
Cell: (609) 820-9047
hearle@gtpolice.com
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Appendix B
Notification Procedures
A. Death Notification
1. Notification of the individual(s) listed on the officer’s emergency notification
form (if available), followed by those to the next of kin, should be made as soon
as possible and, if possible, coincidental with command notifications.
2. The name of the deceased officer shall not be released to the media or other
parties before survivors are notified. If the media has already obtained
information related to the death, they should be asked to withhold the information
until after the notifications have been completed.
3. All notifications should be made by at least two individuals, to include members
of this department, chaplains, or other support personnel.
4. Whenever possible, line-of-duty death notifications should be made in person by
the chief law enforcement executive, or his or her designee, and another member
of this department, preferably an individual with personal knowledge of the
deceased officer and his or her family, such as a partner or close friend. In
addition and where feasible, the police chaplain (if available) or other crisis
intervention specialist should be present during the notification.
5. Where available, unmarked police vehicles should be used for transport to the
location of the survivors.
6. Prior to contacting the next of kin, notifying officials shall do the following:
a. Gather and familiarize themselves with essential details concerning the
deceased, to include full name, age, race and home address, as well as
details of the death, location of the body and personal effects and other
pertinent information.
b. Ensure that the deceased has been positively identified.
c. Gather readily available information concerning the survivors that may aid
in the notification. This includes, but is not limited to, whether survivors
are elderly, disabled, visually or hearing impaired, have medical problems
or do not speak English, in which case a translator or officer who speaks
the particular language should be provided. If possible, officers should
obtain the names of the survivor’s closest relative, friend, family doctor,
and clergyman.
7. Whenever the health of immediate survivors is a concern, emergency medical
services personnel shall be requested to stand by.
8. Upon arrival at the residence or place of business, officials shall
a. check the accuracy of the location;
b. identify themselves by name, rank ,and departmental affiliation;
c. ask permission to enter the residence or, in the case of a business or other
location, move to a place of privacy;
d. request to speak to the immediate survivor; and
e. verify the relationship of the survivor to the deceased.
9. Every reasonable effort shall be made to make the death notification in the
privacy of the survivor’s home or in another location away from public scrutiny.
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10. Prior to making notification, officials should determine if other members of the
family are in the residence. Officials may wish to bring them together for the
notification, but should defer to the wishes of the immediate survivor.
11. Notifying officials should address the survivor(s) in a straightforward manner and
use easy-to-understand language to briefly explain the circumstances of the
incident and the fact that the individual is dead.
a. Officials should not use euphemisms such as “passed away” or “no longer
with us” in order to avoid using the term “dead,” as these expressions may
create confusion or false hope.
b. Officials should not provide graphic aspects of the incident or the
individual’s death. Police jargon should be avoided.
c. Officials should refer to the deceased using terms reflecting the deceased’s
relationship to the survivor (e.g., son, daughter).
12. Notifying officials should be prepared for unexpected responses from survivors to
include fainting, hysteria, and possible verbal or physical assault.
13. Survivors should be provided with sufficient time to regain composure following
delivery of the death notice. Notifying officials should avoid attempts in the
interim to provide comfort by using simple platitudes or trite phrases (e.g., “I
know how you feel,” “I know how hard this is for you.”).
14. Before leaving, the notifying officials shall provide the family with contact
information for the various department personnel who will assist them in the
coming days, weeks, or months.
15. Officials should not leave a lone survivor unattended until all reasonable efforts
have been made to garner first-hand support from the survivor’s family, friends,
coworkers, neighbors, family clergy, crisis counselors, or other community social
service agency. Officers should provide or arrange for transportation of essential
individuals where necessary.
16. If the opportunity to get the family to the hospital exists prior to the officer’s
death, notification officers shall inform the hospital liaison officer that the family
is en route. In such cases, immediate transportation should be provided for
survivors. During transportation, all police radios should be turned off.
17. If necessary, arrangements for childcare or care for elderly relatives shall be made
by notifying officers.
18. Communication of information concerning the officer and the incident shall,
whenever possible, be restricted to the telephone or other secure means of
communication to avoid interception by the media or others.
19. The notification officer shall be responsible for identification of additional
survivors outside the area and shall make any notifications as desired by the
immediate family. Such notifications shall be made by contacting the law
enforcement agency in that jurisdiction and requesting that a personal notification
be made.
20. The notification officer shall submit a written report to the Chief of Police
specifying the identity, time, and place of survivors notified.
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Appendix C
Military Honors
I. Detailed Procedures- Full Military Honors
A. Full Military Honors (Chief’s Discretion)
1. The following procedures will be followed for a police funeral with military
honors. Active and retired police personnel funeral procedures may be adjusted
by the Funeral Event Commander upon approval of the Chief of Police as
appropriate.
B. Assignment of Attending Personnel
1. Vehicles transporting personnel will be coordinated by the respective
Commanding Officer
2. The Funeral Event Commander shall select a pre-designated assembly location
away from the immediate area of the funeral home or church where briefing
procedures shall be conducted.
3. Whenever possible, members shall be formed into ranks to facilitate their orderly
movement to the services as a group.
C. Honor Guard Responsibilities
1. The Funeral Event Commander shall assign an Honor Guard Commander.
2. The Honor Guard shall be posted whenever the remains of the deceased is on
public view
3. The Honor Guard shall stand guard in shifts of two (2), taking positions at the
head and foot of the casket, and stand at Parade Rest. No salutes are required
when posted.
4. The Honor Guard detail shall be concluded when the pallbearers take possession
of the casket.
5. Ensure all aspects of the funeral are coordinated with the Camden County Police
Chiefs Association Funeral Management Team.
D. Honor Guard Relief Procedures
1. The relieving Guard shall march forward and halt facing the duty guard and shall
assume the position of attention.
2. The Duty Guard shall come to attention at which time a salute shall be exchanged.
3. The Duty Guard shall take two side steps and march off and the relieving guard
shall step forward, execute an about-face and assume the Parade Rest position.
Note: The procedures outlined shall be conducted in a military manner.
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4. The length of guard tours shall be designated by the Honor Guard Funeral
Commander, but shall not be longer than Twenty (20) minutes except during the
services.
5. During the periods in which the family wishes to be alone with the deceased, the
Honor Guard shall leave the room.
6. The last change of the guard should be timed to take place immediately prior to
the start of the services.
E. Pallbearers Responsibilities
1. Pallbearers six (6) or eight (8), as designated by the Honor Guard Funeral
Coordinator, shall wear white gloves.
2. The pallbearers shall assemble, prior to the funeral for instructions from the
Honor Guard Funeral Commander and the funeral director.
3. The pallbearers, assisted by the Honor Guard shall relay the floral pieces for
placement in the flower cars.
F. Firing Party Responsibilities
1. A firing party, with rifleman and an officer in charge, shall be appointed by the
Honor Guard Funeral Commander when appropriate. This firing party should
consist of 7 riflemen and an officer in charge whenever possible, but may have
less if necessary.
2. The firing party shall be responsible to report to the grave site well in advance of
the funeral procession.
3. The officer in charge of the firing party shall position it in a safe but conspicuous
location in relation to the grave site.
4. The Honor Guard Funeral Commander shall arrange for the issuance of the
appropriate number of patrol rifles.
G. Bugler Responsibilities
1. When appropriate the Honor Guard Commander under the discretion of the
Funeral Event Commander shall appoint a bugler to play Taps.
2. The bugler shall be responsible to report to the grave site well in advance of the
funeral procession.
3. The bugler shall assume a conspicuous position at an appropriate distance from
the grave site.
H. Funeral Home Services Procedures
1. Arrival should be timed to permit immediate entry into the funeral home without
extended delay.
2. Members shall remove their hats and place them under their support side arm as
they enter the funeral home.
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I. Post Funeral Home Services Procedures
1. The Honor Guard Commander will form two (2) facing ranks, approximately
eight feet apart forming an aisle from the hearse to the funeral home and assume
the position of Parade Rest.
2. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.
3. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking
officer to the right and at the hearse.
4. Division personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall
form ranks to the rear of the uniformed personnel. Retired Chiefs and Retired
Deputy Chiefs shall be given a place of prominence in the ranks.
5. Immediately upon the appearance of the casket, the Honor Guard Funeral
Commander shall give the command “Detail- Attention” followed by the
command “Present Arms.”
a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the
casket is carried through the aisle and placed in the hearse.
b. At this time, the command “Order- Arms” shall be given.
J. After placing the casket in the hearse, the pallbearers shall stand at attention in two
(2) files facing the hearse in the same position as when carrying the casket.
K. The Honor Guard Commander shall then give the command “Detail- Dismissed.” At
this time personnel should move silently to their vehicles and proceed to the church.
L. Chapel/Church Services Procedures
1. Upon arrival from the funeral home or if no funeral home services are conducted,
after the briefing the Honorary Pallbearers (members in uniform) at the command
of the Honor Guard Funeral Commander will form two (2) facing ranks
approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the street to the church,
and assume the position of Parade Rest.
2. When the hearse arrives at the church, the Honor Guard Funeral Commander shall
give the command, “Detail – Attention.” After the family and friends are seated
in the church the pallbearers shall move in formation to the rear of the hearse
ready to remove the casket. The Chaplain shall take a position near the hearse.
3. The pallbearers shall remove the casket from the hearse, and led by the
chaplain/civilian clergyman, carry it feet first into the church. The honorary
pallbearers execute the hand salute at the command “Present Arms” given by
Honor Guard Commander as the casket is started in motion toward the church.
As soon as the casket has been carried into the church, the Honor Guard
Commander shall give the command “Order, Arms” and “At Ease.”
4. In the church the pallbearers preceded by the chaplain/civilian clergyman, shall
place the casket on the church truck and two (2) pallbearers, one (1) in the front
and one in the rear shall guide it down the aisle. They will return to the vestibule
after it is in place.
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5. Members shall remove their hats and place them under their support side arm as
they enter the church. They shall move in an orderly manner to the space
reserved for uniformed members (usually the left front). They shall remain
standing until the Honor Guard Commander issues the command “Be Seated.”
When seated, the hats will be place in their laps.
Note: If seating is not available upon termination of the service, members upon
the command in a low voice by the Honor Guard Commander, “Detail Rise,”
shall rise and place their hats under their support side arms preparing to filing past
the casket. They shall hold their hats in this position until they have passed the
casket and arrived outside the church.
M. Post Chapel/Church Services Procedures
1. After passing by the body, Department members shall file out and form two
facing ranks, approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the hearse
to the church, and assume the position of Parade Rest.
2. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.
3. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking
officer to the right and at the hearse. The next highest ranking officer will stand
across the aisle from the Chief of Police.
4. The hearse shall be parked at a distance to allow sufficient space for the alignment
of Department personnel.
5. Division personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall
form ranks to the rear of the uniformed personnel.
6. Immediately upon the appearance of the casket, the Honor Guard Commander
shall give the command, “Detail Attention” followed by the command “Present
Arms.”
a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the
casket is carried through the aisle and place in the hearse.
b. At this time, the command “Order, Arms” shall be given.
7. After placing the casket in the hearse, the pallbearers shall stand at attention in
two (2) files facing the hearse in the same position as when carrying the casket.
8. The Honor Guard Commander shall then give the command “Detail, Dismissed.”
At this time personnel should move silently to their vehicles and proceed to the
grave site.
N. Funeral Procession Procedures:
The funeral procession shall be formed in the following order, but is subject to
change by the funeral director or family of the deceased:
1. Escort car
2. Flower car
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3. Clergy
4. Pallbearers
5. Chief of Police
6. Hearse
7. Family, immediate
8. Relatives
9. Friends
10. Police Personnel
11. Escort Car
a. The Funeral Event Commander shall arrange for two (2) marked escort
vehicles. One (1) vehicle shall lead the funeral procession and the other
vehicles shall be in the rear.
b. In long funeral processions, marked vehicles shall be staggered with
unmarked vehicles throughout the procession to keep traffic from breaking
into the procession.
c. When circumstances are such that the procession cannot reach the grave site
in a timely fashion, i.e., large details, etc., the Honor Guard Commander shall
have an appropriate number of officers proceed to the cemetery prior to the
procession and form in appropriate ranks leaving space for other officers.
O. Graveside Service Procedures
1. At the cemetery, Department personnel shall form two (2) facing ranks,
approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the grave to the hearse,
and assume the position of Parade Rest.
2. The hearse shall be parked at a distance to allow sufficient space for the alignment
of Department personnel.
3. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.
4. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking
officer to the right and at the grave. Other uniform personnel shall form ranks to
the rear of the aisle.
5. Personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall form ranks
to the rear of the uniformed personnel. Retired Chiefs and Retires Deputy Chiefs
shall be given a place of prominence in the ranks.
6. Immediately upon the casket being removed from the hearse, the Honor Guard
Commander shall give the command “Detail Attention,” followed by the
command “Present, Arms.”
a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the
casket, preceded by the chaplain/clergyman, is carried through the aisle and
placed over the grave.
b. Personnel in civilian dress shall in the above cases stand at attention
(uncovered) and place hand or headdress over the left breast.
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7. The pallbearers upon reaching the grave shall place the casket on the lowering
device. They shall remain in place facing the casket. The pallbearers shall raise
the flag from the casket and hold it in a horizontal position, waist high, until the
conclusion of Taps.
8. When the flag has been raised off of the casket, the Honor Guard Commander
shall give the command, “Order Arms” followed by the command “Parade Rest.”
9. When department personnel have been brought to Parade Rest, the
chaplain/clergyman shall conduct the graveside service. At the conclusion of the
benediction, the chaplain/clergyman shall move two (2) steps to the side or rear.
During the benediction, all personnel shall bow their heads.
10. When the service has been completed, the Honor Guard Commander shall
command Department personnel to attention, followed by the command “Present,
Arms”; at which time the Firing Party, will fire three (3) volleys of blank
cartridges, assume the position of Present Arms at the command of the officer in
charge of the Firing Party and remain in that position until the conclusion of Taps.
The bugler, positioned near the Firing Party and in view of the next of kin, shall
sound Taps immediately following the last volley.
Note: This is the ONLY Hand Salute done with a Slow Movement.
11. At the conclusion of Taps, the rifles of the Firing Party shall be locked and all
Department personnel shall be commanded by the Honor Guard Commander to
“Order, Arms.” The pallbearers shall then fold the flag into the shape of a cocked
hat (Appendix A-6). The flag shall not touch the casket. The badge of the
deceased shall be pinned to the flag. Three (3) spent rifle rounds shall be placed
inside of the folds of the flag. The flag, when folded, shall be passed to the
pallbearer at the head of the grave who shall face left and place the flag at chest
level in the hands of the Chief of Police or representative. The pallbearer will
salute the flag for three (3) seconds and then face right to assume the original
position.
The Chief of Police will recite the following:
“On behalf of the Governor of New Jersey
The Mayor of Gloucester Township and a grateful State and
Township; please accept this symbol of our appreciation
Of your (relationship) service to the (Insert Community Name ) and
The (Insert Agency Name) Department.”
12. At that time, as chief of Police presents the flag to the family of the deceased, the
command, “Detail, Parade Rest,” shall be given by the Honor Guard
Commander. Department personnel will remain at Parade Rest until the family
moves away from the grave.
13. When the family has cleared the aisle, the Honor Guard Commander shall
command, “Detail, Attention,” followed by the command, “Dismissed.”
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Appendix C
Benefits Coordinator Reference
This appendix shall serve as a reference for the Benefits Coordinator and shall not be
considered a mandatory action whenever a Benefits Coordinator is assigned.
A. The chief of police shall appoint a Benefits Coordinator to assist the fallen officer’s
family with immediate and long-term assistance in respect to benefits:
1. The Benefits Coordinator should be close to the family of the deceased
officer and must be willing and able to devote his time and assistance over
a period of six (6) months or longer.
B. The Benefit’s Coordinator will need to obtain at least eighteen (18) certified copies of
the following documents:
1. Deceased officer’s birth certificate.
2. Deceased officer’s death certificate.
3. The deceased officer’s marriage certificate.

If the deceased officer was previously married, copies of his/her
divorce decree will also be needed.
4. The widow’s birth certificate.
5. The children(s) birth certificates.
C. The Benefit’s Coordinator should have the following information available at all
times:
1. The deceased officer’s:
 Date of death;
 Date of birth;
 Marriage date;
 All children’s birth dates, and
 Widow’s birth date
2. The social security numbers for:
 The deceased officer;
 The widow(er), and
 All children
D. New Jersey Police and Fire Pension
1. The police and fire pension system provides for 3 ½ times the salary of the
deceased officer as a one-time payment and an annual pension of 70% of the
deceased officer’s salary.
2. Health benefits are also available to the widow(er) and children.
3. The college tuition of the deceased officer’s children shall be paid for by the
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pension and the widow(er) is entitled to this benefit for a period of eight (8) years
following the death.
4. The benefits coordinator should petition Human Resources for copies of the
application submitted by the township. Inquire as to the anticipated date of .
approval and the projected date of the first pension check.
5. Ensure that the application for benefits is filed in a timely fashion. If it is not
submitted by the last day of the month in which the deceased officer was killed,
the survivors will lose a month of benefits.
E. Social Security Benefits
1. Social security benefits are available for the widow(er) and children of the
deceased officer.
2. The benefits coordinator should call the local Social Security office and make an
appointment for the widow(er).
3. Accompany the widow(er) to the appointment and bring all of the previously
mentioned information and certificates. In addition, bring a W-2 Form for proof
of earnings.
4. The toll-free number for Social Security is 1-800-772-1213.
F. Workmen’s Compensation Claims
1. Human Resources should be available to assist with Workmen’s Compensation
claims.
2. The benefit’s coordinator should ensure that the claim is filed and ask for copies
of the applications submitted.
3. Inquire as to when the benefits are expected to start.
4. In New Jersey, the widow(er) of a police officer killed in the line of duty is
entitled to 60% of the deceased officer’s weekly wages.
5. Additionally, the family is entitled to $3,500.00 for funeral expenses payable to
the funeral home.
G. The Federal Death Benefit
1. A part of the Public Safety Officer’s Death Benefit, it is available to survivors of
police officers killed in the line of duty.
2. A one-time payment of more than $127,000.00 is divided between the surviving
spouse and children.
3. The following is a list of items that will be needed to complete the application:



A detailed statement of circumstances on agency letterhead, notarized and
with an original signature of the authorized official from the agency.
Notarized copy of the investigation report with an original signature of the
investigation officer.
Notarized complete autopsy report with an original signature of an official
from the medical agency that performed the autopsy.
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


A toxicology report with an original signature of the official from the
medical agency that performed the analysis.
A Death Certificate with a raised seal.
The personnel that handle the Federal Death Benefit can be reached in
Washington, D.C. at (202) 307-0635.
H. Miscellaneous Benefits
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
State FOP or PBA
Other police union
Township/Borough supplied life insurance plan
Private organization and foundations
Camden County Hero Scholarship Fund
I. County Surrogate’s Offices
1. Check with funeral director for information on what is needed or contact the
Surrogate’s Office by phone.
2. If the deceased officer had a will, the survivors should go to the Surrogate’s
Office to present the will for probate.
3 .Bank officials monitor the death notices and will seal individuals safe deposit
box upon his death so that a supervisor can inventory the contents. Assets in the
box will be valued for their current value for use at the date of death. All of this
will be part of the person’s estate.
 Deducted from the taxable portion of the estate will be any debts and
legitimate bills, funeral expenses and other fee.
 The entire process of filing and paying of taxes should be done within
eight months after the person has died.
J. Transfer of Vehicle Titles
1. If the vehicle is titled to both husband and wife, it can be transferred to the
surviving spouse by submitting the old title, a notarized affidavit (form CO-45Affidavit of Surviving Spouse) stating that they were married to each other at the
time of death and a copy of the Death Certificate. This can be done at any Motor
Vehicle Services Office.
2. If the owner dies intestate (without a will) and the estate of the owner is
$10,000.00 or more, the title can be transferred to the surviving spouse by
submitting to the Motor Vehicles Agency the old title properly assigned and
executed by the Administrator of the estate and a Surrogate’s Short Certificate.
The cost is $5.00 and the new registration fee.

If the estate is worth less than $10,000.00 the title can be transferred to the
surviving spouse by submitting to the Motor Vehicle Agency the old title and
a certified copy of the Surviving Spouse Affidavit signed before the Surrogate
of the County in which the deceased resided. The cost is the same as above.
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
If the owner dies with a will, the title can be transferred to the surviving
spouse by submitting to the Motor Vehicle Agency the old title properly
assigned and executed by the executor of the estate and a Surrogate’s Short
certificate.
3. A motor vehicle registered in the name of the deceased may be operated for thirty
(30) days after the date of death by the surviving spouse or immediate family
officer. If there is a lien on the car, contact the lending institution for further
instructions.
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